Murchison, South Kingsville, Williamstown: Police seized over $1.8 million in stolen property and drugs

Police have arrested two men after uncovering a suspected organised crime network, seizing more than $1.8 million in stolen boats, motorbikes and drugs.

Police have arrested two men and seized more than $1.8 million in stolen property and drugs after a large-scale boat theft investigation.

Two boats, valued at $100,000 each, were taken from a Williamstown address on February 22 and March 14, which sparked the investigation.

Police searched a Heathcote property on April 7 before two Bar Crusher boats and trailers were found.

A 52-year-old man was arrested on April 26 at a Murchison property after police allegedly found a large amount of stolen property and drugs at the home.

Police also allegedly uncovered 115kg of dried cannabis, with a street value of $1.5 million, as well as two firearms, methylamphetamine, a stolen truck, bobcat and two motorbikes, and a stolen industrial generator.

The Murchison man was charged with trafficking, four counts of stolen goods, possessing drug of dependence and possessing a category A longarm unlicensed and imitation firearm.

He was remanded and will reappear at the Shepparton Magistrates’ Court on July 19.

A second man was arrested from South Kingsville on May 2 after police searched the address.

Detectives allegedly found vessel registration stickers, drugs, a samurai sword and allegedly stolen computers and phones.

The 53-year-old South Kingsville man presented to a police station and was interviewed.

He is expected to be charged with a number of drug and theft offences.

Water Police inspector Greg Barras said the investigation uncovered an “organised crime network”.

“What started out as one stolen boat led to police dismantling what we will allege was an organised crime network,” he said.

“It’s a reminder to anyone thinking of stealing and rebirthing boats that we have a dedicated team of marine detectives who will catch up with you.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit an online report.