Police close drug trafficking operation
Detectives from the Northern Major and Organised Crime Squad (MOCS) have closed an operation targeting the suspected trafficking of illicit drugs.
Operation Papa Orthograde began in March this year and identified a number of people allegedly involved in a drug trafficking syndicate operating between Townsville and South East Queensland.
Over the past two days, officers from the Townsville Tactical Crime Squad, Northern MOCS and Brisbane’s Drug and Serious Crime Group finalised the operation, which saw 32 people charged with 151 drug-related offences.
Drugs with a street value in excess of $1million were seized and included Ice, MDMA, cocaine and cannabis.
During the investigation police also seized a quantity of cash and weapons.
All of those charged will appear in the Townsville Magistrates Court over the next month.
Detective Senior Sergeant Mick Walker of the Northern Major and Organised Crime Squad said officers will continue to target those engaging in criminal activity in Queensland.
“The actions this week are only part of the approach police take in stopping the distribution of drugs into our community,” Detective Senior Sergeant Walker said.
“This result is a testament to the collaboration between police and the community – we cannot fight this issue alone.
“We act throughout operations in efforts to disrupt these activities and we will pursue and prosecute offenders who choose crime as a business model.
“If you are engaging in these types of activity, we will find and prosecute you.”
If you have information for police, contact Policelink on 131 444 or provide information using the online form 24hrs per day.
You can report information about crime anonymously to Crime Stoppers, a registered charity and community volunteer organisation, by calling 1800 333 000 or via crimestoppersqld.com.au 24hrs per day.
Source: Townsville Crime Alert
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