"Substantial blow" - Police bust alleged $1 million North East drug, gun ring

AN alleged crime ring within Wangaratta and the North East has been “significantly disrupted” according to police, as officers seized $1 million worth of drugs and 18 firearms from our streets. The ongoing investigation conducted by detectives in Wangaratta and Cobram since 2023 has seen more than 30 arrests made, 298 charges issued and significant amounts of firearms and drugs seized. Police said more than 1kg of meth, 5kg of cannabis, 5000 MDMA tablets, 49g of cocaine and 18 firearms and large quantities of ammunition has been taken off the streets in the duration of the major operation. Police have also recovered 20 vehicles which were stolen over the past three years. Detective Inspector Anthony Town said the investigation marked one of the most substantial blows on alleged trafficking of drugs and firearms in the North East in recent years. “We’ve significantly disrupted an alleged criminal network operating right in our own backyard,” he said. “This wasn’t a matter of chance - it’s the result of relentless investigative work by our detectives in Wangaratta and Cobram. “Organised crime groups trafficking drugs and firearms have no place in our community. "They put lives at risk, fuel violence, and we’re determined to stop them.” On Wednesday, police detectives supported by specialist strike teams executed multiple search warrants to arrest five people and seize four guns from alleged traffickers in Wangaratta and Cobram. A 32-year-old Wangaratta man, a 36-year-old Wangaratta man and a 37-year-old Cobram man were all remanded in custody for multiple charges of drug and gun trafficking. The 37-year-old was also charged with conduct endangering life after allegedly firing multiple shots from a firearm at a car in Warrick Street, Yarrawonga on 5 March. All three men faced Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on Thursday and were remanded to re-appear on 7 August. A 33-year-old Wangaratta woman was charged with drug trafficking and bailed to appear at Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court on 1 September and a 23-year-old Cobram woman was charged with trafficking meth and cocaine, possession of a taser, and possession of an imitation firearm. She was bailed to appear at Cobram Magistrates’ Court on 19 August. Det Insp Town said the force would continue to go after those who try to profit from harm. “This outcome sends a clear message, and we won’t stop until every link in the chain is broken,” he said. The investigation remains ongoing and anyone with information on alleged criminal activity can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

"Substantial blow" - Police bust alleged $1 million North East drug, gun ring

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