Police have launched a new operation targeting drug crime across the South Burnett Region and are urging the community to play a key role by reporting suspicious activity and information about local drug offending.
Operation Tutela will focus on disrupting the supply and distribution of dangerous drugs, identifying those involved in supplying drugs and addressing the broader criminal activity often associated with illicit drug use.
Officers will undertake a range of proactive policing activities, including targeted patrols, intelligence-led investigations and enforcement action aimed at reducing drug-related crime and improving community safety.
As part of the operation, local police have partnered with Crime Stoppers urging residents to 'Report a Drug Dealer' and share information about suspected drug activity in their communities.
Police say intelligence provided by the community remains one of the most effective tools in identifying offenders and disrupting the supply of dangerous drugs, which was evident in the recent frontline operation, Operation Lionrock resulting in 31 offenders being charged with 94 offences between 25 and 28 May.
On May 27 police executed a search warrant at Cherbourg following information received from the community, resulting in the seizure of methylamphetamine and the arrest of a 37-year-old woman.
She has been charged with one count each of possessing dangerous drugs, supplying dangerous drugs, possessing anything for use in the commission of crime and possess utensils and is due to appear in the Murgon Magistrates Court on 30 June.
Darling Downs District Officer Acting Superintendent Kelly Hanlen said community information often provides vital leads that assist police investigations.
"The most effective way to combat drug offending is through a partnership between police and the community. When residents report suspicious activity, they provide valuable information that helps us target offenders and prevent further harm," said Acting Superintendent Hanlen.
"We know that drug-related offending does not happen in isolation. It is frequently connected to other forms of crime that impact community safety and wellbeing, which is why preventing and disrupting drug activity remains a key priority for police.
"I encourage anyone with information no matter how minor it may seem to report it to police or Crime Stoppers. Every piece of information has the potential to assist an investigation and could be the missing piece that helps us prevent further damage to our communities."
For those wishing to remain anonymous, information can be reported securely through Crime Stoppers Queensland.
Crime Stoppers Queensland Chief Executive Officer, David Hansen said anonymous reporting remains an important tool in preventing crime and protecting local communities.
"Communities play an important role in preventing and disrupting crime. When people share what they know, they help police act earlier, target offenders and keep Queensland communities safe," said Mr. Hansen.
"If you see or hear something suspicious, report it. Don't wait or second guess it. You can do this anonymously to Crime Stoppers Queensland, without getting involved further. Even if you're unsure, your information could make a difference and help police stop crime."
"As an independent charity, Crime Stoppers Queensland is proud to support police by giving the community a safe, anonymous way to share information that helps investigations and protects local communities."
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers Queensland on 1800 333 000 or submit a report online at crimestoppersqld.com.au.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
