VIPER taskforce swoops on regional properties and seize weapons, drugs and cash

Police have swooped on regional properties in Echuca and Bendigo as part of ongoing efforts to dismantle bikie gangs and organised crime networks across the state.

Police have arrested six people and seized an array of weapons as part of ongoing efforts to dismantle gang and organised crime across the state.

The enforcement was carried out by Victoria Police’s newly formed VIPER taskforce, which is working to prevent, detect and dismantle the criminal activities of organised crime networks, outlaw motorcycle and street gangs.

The taskforce executed seven firearm prohibition order searches across Echuca and Bendigo from Friday to Sunday, seizing an array of weapons, cash and drugs.

This included three gel blaster firearms, a rifle scope, bayonet, controlled weapons, rounds of ammunition, a “significant quantity of cash” and various drugs including methylamphetamine, cannabis, and prescription drugs.

Police also seized a red Ford Falcon reportedly stolen from Ballarat last Friday.

Detective Senior Sergeant Chris Ellway, of the VIPER taskforce, said the arrests were a “timely reminder” that gang-related and organised crime activity was being targeted not only in Melbourne, but across all of Victoria.

“Those living in regional areas shouldn’t feel more comfortable. If you are involved in gang related or organised criminal activity anywhere in Victoria, you are not out of our reach.

“We can and will target you.”

Police say that firearm prohibition orders are an “integral enforcement tool” that give police specific powers to respond to firearm-related crimes.

Once issued, the order – prohibiting a person from acquiring, possessing or carrying a firearm or related item – remains in effect for 10 years for adults and for five years for those aged between 14 and 17 years.

If contravened, the orders – introduced in May 2018 – can result in 10 years in prison.

Detective Senior Sergeant Ellway said the enforcement sent a “clear message”.

“Police will use every power they have to prevent you from causing harm to our communities.

“This is also about creating greater consequences for these individuals should they come into possession of a firearm – if they want to roll the dice they could be looking at up to 10 years in prison.”

The arrests included a 49-year-old Echuca man, who was charged with a range of firearm and drug offences and bailed.

Additionally, a 52-year-old Kyabram man was charged with theft of motor vehicle and possess proceeds of crime, while a 32-year-old Kyabram man was charged with possess drug of dependence.

Both men were also bailed to appear in court at later dates.

A 35-year-old Echuca woman was issued with a cannabis caution, a 28-year-old Rochester woman was issued with a drug diversion and a 24-year-old North Bendigo woman was released pending further inquiries.

Anyone with information about illicit firearm activity is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au