August 21, 2012

Police have closed Phase 2 of “Operation Juliet Tangent”,  a year-long investigation into the activities of a significant organised crime group involved in the manufacturing and trafficking of drugs across Queensland.

The operation targeted people who were identified as having a production and distribution network across the Sunshine Coast and other Queensland locations including Murgon, Bundaberg, Mackay, Brisbane North and the Gold Coast.

Following raids today on addresses across the Sunshine Coast and other regions, 15 people have been charged with 45 offences, including seven charged with drug trafficking.

Other charges include supplying and possession of dangerous drugs and property-related offences.

Investigations continue into the recovery of suspected stolen property, some of which police have identified as being stolen during break-and-enters.

Police have seized significant quantities of drugs, including amphetamines, GHB, cannabis and heroin as well as a large sum of cash, four motorcycles and a ride-on mower.

During Phase 1 earlier this year, police arrested 63 people on 306 offences and located more than $600,000 in dangerous drugs. Property seizures and property restraining orders totalled more than $1 million.

Det-Insp Dave Drinnen said Phase 1 and 2 of Operation Juliet Tangent had made a significant impact on dismantling organised crime groups operating in Queensland.

“The flow on effect of this extensive operation will also have an impact on other related crime,” Det-Insp Drinnen said.

“A key component to the operation has been the ability for the investigation to seize large quantities of assets and property which the network has acquired through their illegal activities.”