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HomeNewsDrug arrests in pre-schoolies operation

Drug arrests in pre-schoolies operation

Organised Crime Gangs Group detectives have charged 15 people on 93 drug and weapons offences, as part of an operation targeting the supply of dangerous drugs on the Gold Coast.

Operation Whiskey Beck commenced in May, with a high-visibility closure over the weekend, with detectives and officers from Gold Coast District executing a series of search warrants in the lead up to schoolies commencing.

Across the weekend operation, eight search warrants were executed in the Burleigh Waters, Labrador, Currumbin, Carrara, Mudgeeraba and Mermaid Waters areas, with police locating quantities of methylamphetamine, cocaine, cannabis, MDMA tablets, prescription drugs, weapons and over $70,000 in cash.

Officers also conducted over 90 street checks for public order offenders and intoxicated people, and wandings using handheld scanners to detect knives and other weapons.

15 people, aged between 21 and 25, have been charged with a range of offences, including nine counts of drug trafficking and 18 counts of supply dangerous drug offences.

Detective Acting Superintendent Craig Bowman from the Organised Crime Gangs Group said the operation was part of ongoing disruption to target those criminal networks involved in the supply of dangerous drugs on the Gold Coast.

“This operation combined covert and overt strategies to identify those selling dangerous drugs. We are sending a clear message to those involved in illegal drug activity that you never know who you’re selling to, and if you’re involved you expect law enforcement to come through your door,” Detective Acting Superintendent Bowman said.

“We remain committed to investigating and targeting criminal networks and associates who threaten the safety and wellbeing of our communities. Those involved in organised criminal activity can expect continued police attention.

“The drugs seized were destined for the streets in the lead-up to Schoolies celebrations, with no regard for the impact they could have. These substances destroy lives and fund further criminal activity, which is why we will continue to pursue those responsible.

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