Detectives have arrested 40 people and issued 129 charges following a week-long operation across Geelong that targeted illicit firearms, drug trafficking and persons of interest with a propensity for violence.
Last week police swarmed properties across the Geelong region, including in Geelong, Lara, Corio, and Norlane.
As part of the operation, Local Crime Investigation Unit (CIU) and Divisional Response Unit (DRU) detectives were joined by a range of specialist police, including Crime Command’s VIPER Taskforce, which targets outlaw motorcycle gangs (OMCGs), organised crime gangs and street gangs. State Highway Patrol were also involved.
Police conducted 53 Firearm Prohibition Orders (FPO) searches, nine drug warrants, and five search warrants between 6 and 10 February, with local Rebels Outlaw Motorcycle Club (OMCG) members among those targeted.
“There was a significant degree of enforcement across the Geelong region last week, with local police and specialist units working hand in hand to keep firearms out of the hands of local OMCG members and those with a history of serious violence,” Geelong Crime Investigation Unit Detective Senior Sergeant Mark Guthrie said.
“These operations will continue to keep the heat on those prohibited from possessing a firearm due to their criminal history and associations.
“The safety of the community is our number one priority and make no mistake – we will continue to come down hard on people who think they can get away with criminal activity, including drug trafficking or illegally possessing a firearm.
“Victoria Police regularly perform compliance checks on individuals subject to an FPO, and if caught with a firearm, the consequences could see you facing up to 10 years behind bars.”
As part of the operation, members from State Highway Patrol also targeted serious and organised crime entities on Geelong roads.
This led to four vehicles being impounded, four people found driving on a suspended licence, one drug driver detection, two defect notices being issued, and one offender processed for evading police.
Anyone with information about illicit firearm activity is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report to crimestoppersvic.com.au
