Arrests made in Shepparton police operation targeting drugs, firearms

Police have swooped on properties across Greater Shepparton, arresting 12 people and uncovered a huge stash of drugs and weapons.

Police seized $80,000 worth of coke during an operation in Greater Shepparton Picture: istock

Police have made a series of dramatic arrests across Greater Shepparton as part of a major operation that has uncovered a huge stash of cocaine.

Twelve people were arrested and $80,000 worth of coke was seized as specialist police swooped on homes in Shepparton, Tatura and Mooroopna between March 10 and 15.

The operation focused on individuals subject to Firearm Prohibition Orders, persons of interest, and outstanding warrants.

A 38-year-old Shepparton man was charged with allegedly trafficking a commercial quantity of cocaine after about 280g valued at approximately $70,000, was found.

He was bailed to appear at Shepparton Magistrates’ Court on March 18.

A 43-year-old Tatura man was arrested in relation to six outstanding warrants.

Police seized approximately 24g of cannabis, 20ml of GHB, and knuckle dusters.

He was charged with possess drug of dependence, possess prohibited weapon, going equipped to steal, and possess proceeds of crime and bailed to appear before Shepparton Magistrates Court on July 14.

A 37-year-old Mooroopna man was arrested after police found an allegedly stolen motorbike at his address.

VIPER Taskforce officers worked with Shepparton detectives to execute searches and warrants relating to drugs and firearms. Picture: Victoria Police

He was charged with handle stolen goods and bailed to appear before Shepparton Magistrates’ Court on July 18.

The VIPER Taskforce assisted Shepparton police with the execution of a search warrant at a property in Shepparton on March 13.

Police located and seized approximately 10g of cocaine and $9400 cash.

A 36-year-old Mooroopna man was charged with traffick and possess cocaine, bailed to appear before Shepparton Magistrates’ Court on May 19.

Shepparton detective Senior Sergeant Paul Shortis said regional Victoria was not immune to serious and organised crime.

“Organised crime networks often believe they can operate under the radar in regional areas, but we are proving that’s simply not the case,” he said.

VIPER Taskforce Senior Sergeant Greg Pearson said the operation was about “cracking down on crime” and ensuring the safety of the community.

“We hope our highly visible presence last week sent a clear message that crime will not be tolerated anywhere in this state,” he said.

“Alongside local police, we will continue to be out in force and use our full range of capabilities to proactively those involved in organised crime at every opportunity.”