Geelong police, VIPER Taskforce seize drugs in firearm compliance checks

Organised crime detectives have swooped across Geelong and the Surf Coast, seizing drugs including cocaine, cannabis and steroids.

Detectives from the VIPER Taskforce along with Geelong police have swooped on Geelong this week. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Luis Enrique Ascui

Organised crime detectives have swooped across Geelong and the Surf Coast, seizing drugs in raids across the city, suburbs and outlying bushland.

The joint operation between the VIPER Taskforce and Geelong police was focused on illegal firearm ownership but unearthed substances including marijuana, cocaine and steroids.

The officers were checking firearm prohibition orders (FPO) compliance.

An FPO prohibits an individual from acquiring, possessing, carrying or using any firearm or firearm-related item such as ammunition.

Those under an FPO are also unable to enter a range of premises including firearms dealers, shooting ranges and gun clubs.

Police conducted 14 FPO compliance searches across the region, from the hamlet of Boonah on the Surf Coast to Corio, Lara, Armstrong Creek, Ocean Grove and Queenscliff.

Investigators seized various quantities of what was reportedly to be cannabis, cocaine, MDMA, steroids and ketamine across the four-day operation from Sunday to Wednesday.

An 18-year-old Leopold man was issued a cannabis caution while a 42-year-old Armstrong Creek man was issued a drug diversion.

First-time cannabis users are normally cautioned rather than charged.

A 36-year-old Hamlyn Heights man was interviewed in relation to possessing a drug of dependence and is expected to be charged on the summons.

Police have issued more than 2300 FPOs across the state since they were introduced in May 2018.

Once issued, an FPO remains in effect for 10 years for adults and five years for children.

Police warned the consequences for breaking an FPO are significant and individuals could spend up to 10 years in jail.

The sting comes after numerous operations led by Geelong police targeting crime and anti-social behaviour.

More than $400,000 of illegal tobacco was seized and four people arrested in September last year.

Police seized sticks of illicit tobacco, vapes and loose tobacco.

Fourteen people were also arrested and charged during a blitz at Geelong shopping centres in November targeting thefts.

Anyone with information about illicit firearms or drug activity should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Originally published as Geelong police, VIPER Taskforce seize drugs in firearm compliance checks