Police from State Crime Command’s Drug and Serious Crime Group have closed a week- long enforcement operation focused on drug traffickers operating from Mackay to the Gold Coast in the lead up to Schoolies celebrations on the Gold Coast this weekend, Queensland Police say.
Following investigations conducted by the State Drug Squad and as part of a concerted effort by the Queensland Police Service to target the trafficking of dangerous drugs across Queensland, the operation focused on targets involved in the distribution of methylamphetamine (ice), MDMA and cannabis.
During the week, police executed 35 search warrants in various areas including Mackay, Sunshine Coast, Brisbane and the Gold Coast. Over 50 police officers from the Drug and Serious Crime Group, Brisbane Region, Central Region and South Eastern Region provided support for the enforcement action.
A total of 46 people have been charged during the last week with 164 offences including seven charges of trafficking dangerous drugs, 25 charges of supply dangerous drugs, and three charges of produce dangerous drug.
As part of the operation, police seized approximately $1.25m worth of drugs including methylamphetamine, MDMA and cannabis. Three sophisticated hydroponic cannabis growing systems were located, including one containing 219 cannabis plants located at a Slacks Creek address, and smaller hydroponic cannabis growing systems at Lawnton (25 plants) and Inala (22 plants) addresses.
Additionally, a clandestine illicit drug lab for producing methylamphetamine was located at a Wynnum address.
"Drug trafficking is a major problem in our communities and the QPS is determined to continue its efforts to target those people who cause harm in our community. With Schoolies celebrations commencing later this week, this is a warning to drug traffickers and prospective customers alike, that police efforts in targeting drug distribution will continue to be a major focus," Detective Inspector Mark Slater of State Crime Command’s Drug and Serious Crime Group said.
Investigations are continuing and further arrests are expected.
Anyone with information which could assist with this matter should contact Crime Stoppers anonymously.
