Police operation leads to major drug syndicate being dismantled

Members from ACT Policing’s Drug and Organised Crime Team executed multiple search warrants across Canberra’s north yesterday afternoon (Friday, May 23) where a large quantity of illicit drugs, property and cash was seized.

From 1.30pm police executed 10 simultaneous Drugs of Dependence Act search warrants at various locations throughout Canberra’s north.

During the search police located and seized 728 grams of cocaine, an amount of crystalline substance suspected to be methylamphetamine, tablets suspected to be MDMA (ecstasy), steroids, drug paraphernalia, two motor vehicles and a sum of cash. The potential street value of the drugs seized is about $200 000.

A 28-year-old Canberra City man was arrested and charged with Trafficking in a Controlled Drug other than cannabis, namely cocaine. He will appear in the ACT Magistrates Court this morning where police will be opposing bail.

Detective Station Sergeant Steve Hogarth commended his officers for their professionalism throughout the operation.

"The investigators involved in this operation have done an excellent job," Detective Sergeant Hogarth said.

"Their careful planning, investigative skills, and brilliant execution have resulted in us preventing a significant amount of drugs from reaching the ACT community."

Investigations are ongoing.

ACT Policing urges anyone with information regarding the manufacture or distribution of illicit drugs to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via the Crime Stoppers ACT website. Information can be provided anonymously.