Echo Taskforce detectives, with the assistance of the Special Operations Group (SOG) and Bendigo Divisional Response Unit, yesterday arrested three people following an investigation into alleged firearms and drug offences.
A 27-year-old Bendigo man was arrested by the SOG on Mitchell Street in Bendigo after he got out of a vehicle.
A 26-year-old Kangaroo Flat woman, who was driving the car at the time, was also arrested.
A firearm and ammunition were located during a search of the vehicle, a white Kia sedan, while police also located drugs during a search of the man.
The man has been charged with;
• Prohibited person possess firearm;
• Prohibited person use firearm;
• Contravene FPO in possession of firearm;
• Fail to immediately surrender on whom FPO was served;
• Prohibited person possess ammunition;
• Traffic methylamphetamine;
• Possess drug of dependence;
and
• Prohibited person use firearm (x3).
He was also issued with a Firearms Prohibition Order (FPO).
The woman has been release pending further enquiries.
The man was remanded and will re-appear at Bendigo Magistrates' Court on 11 November.
The white Kia was seized and will be examined by forensic investigators.
Following the arrests, detectives executed a search warrant at a residential property in Olive Street, Bendigo as part of the investigation.
During the search, a number of edged weapons, OC spray, knuckle dusters and drugs were located.
A 22-year-old woman was also arrested at the Olive Street property and has since been charged with drugs and weapons offences.
She was remanded and will appear at Bendigo Magistrates' Court later today.
A further search warrant was executed today at the Rebels Outlaw Motor Cycle Gang (OMCG) headquarters on Havilah Road in Long Gully.
Officer in charge of the Echo Taskforce, Detective Inspector Graham Banks, said Victoria Police will continue to have a strong focus on the activities of both OMCG members and their associates.
"Those involved in criminal activities can be assured that we will do everything possible to ensure they are held accountable for their actions," he said.
"Victoria Police is not intimidated by OMCGs, nor will we allow our communities to be."
"We will also continue to issue FPOs to those who we know are involved in criminal activities.
"An FPO prevents a person from acquiring, possessing or using a firearm or firearm related items, as well as entering certain premises such as firearms dealerships and shooting ranges."
The investigation continues and anyone with information about OMCG activity is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report to www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
