VIPER Taskforce on Friday arrested two people for drug related offending following an attempted intercept of a vehicle in in Werribee earlier in the week.
The unit had been patrolling the area when they intercepted a black Audi Q5 in Wallace Avenue, Point Cook at approximately 7.30pm on Wednesday, 31 August.
The driver of the vehicle, a 44-year-old Werribee man, informed police his licence was suspended. VIPER members notified the man they would search his car, and he immediately started his vehicle and sped off.
As he drove off, he struck a VIPER member with the wing mirror of his vehicle.
The officer sustained minor injuries during the incident.
Police executed a warrant at a residential property in Werribee on Friday morning and subsequently located approximately 50 cannabis plants at the premises.
A 42-year-old Werribee man was charged with possess cannabis.
He was bailed to appear at Werribee Magistrates' Court on 7 February, 2023.
A 56-year-old Werribee man was charged with cultivate cannabis.
He appeared at Melbourne Magistrates' Court on Friday evening.
Police continue to search for the 44-year-old Werribee man in relation to the offences of drive whilst suspended and reckless conduct endangering serious injury.
The VIPER Taskforce is a tactical and investigative unit based within Crime Command focused on preventing, detecting, deterring, disrupting and dismantling the criminal activities of groups such as outlaw motorcycle gangs, organised crime networks and street gangs.
The taskforce, which commenced in July 2022, supports the work of specialist investigation units and regional police by providing further resources to assist with investigation tactics and enforcement actions.
VIPER is an acronym for visibility, intelligence, prevention, enforcement and reassurance.
Anyone with information about illicit drug activity is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.auExternal Link
