Nearly 20 Kilograms of Drugs, Ammunition, and Fireworks Seized in Single Raid
During a search warrant executed in a drug operation, police officers uncovered more than anticipated at a Queensland man’s residence.
Members of the Australian Federal Police (AFP) and Queensland Police Service (QPS) stumbled upon an unexpected cache when they raided the premises of a Queensland man as part of their collaborative Taskforce Venator drug trafficking investigation.
Unlike most traffickers who usually focus on a single substance, the 50-year-old individual was found with nearly 20 kilograms of various drugs, along with ammunition and fireworks, stored in a commercial property located in Newstead.
The officers discovered 15.9 kilograms of methamphetamines, 2.4 kilograms of cocaine, 1.5 kilograms of heroin, and 200 rounds of 9 mm ammunition, as well as fireworks, all kept at a location to which he reportedly had access.
Additionally, investigators found a small quantity of anabolic steroids and equipment consistent with drug packaging and distribution.
As a result of this extensive collection of contraband, the man faces four charges for possessing a dangerous drug, along with one count each of trafficking, possessing items related to a crime, possessing explosives, and failing to provide necessary information to officers regarding a digital device.
The charge of unlawfully trafficking dangerous drugs carries a potential life sentence.
Taskforce’s Efforts Will Continue
AFP Detective Inspector Tim Puchala emphasized that Taskforce Venator is committed to “preventing drugs from entering the Australian community and resulting in widespread harm.”
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“Even in minimal quantities, drugs inflict severe damage on users, their families, and the surrounding community, by straining the healthcare system and contributing to related crime,” he added.
According to QPS Detective Acting Superintendent Tim Leadbetter of the Crime and Intelligence Command’s Organised Crime Gangs Group, Taskforce Venator has significantly hindered organized criminal organizations, and investigations will keep progressing.
“This result exemplifies our dedication to fighting organized crime and its associated activities, as well as safeguarding the community from the harm they induce,” he stated.
While drug possession is illegal in all Australian states and territories, laws concerning fireworks differ. Certain regions, like the Northern Territory, ACT, and Tasmania, allow public possession and use during specific times, whereas other states completely ban them except for licensed professionals.
In Queensland, purchasing, possessing, or using fireworks without a licensed professional is illegal and may incur substantial penalties, including fines up to $53,380 and potential imprisonment.
