VIPER taskforce makes more than 1000 arrests in its first two years

A special taskforce at the frontline of the state’s battle against organised crime has made more than 1000 arrests in its first two years, targeting criminals implicated in homicides, arsons and shootings.

A special taskforce at the frontline of the state’s battle against organised crime has made more than 1000 arrests in its first two years.

VIPER began work in the aftermath of the 2022 Fawkner Cemetery shooting of Sam “The Punisher” Abdulrahim amid growing concerns about gang mayhem.

It has since been used in high-level operations against bikie clubs – including the Finks, Hells Angels and Rebels – as well as Middle-Eastern organised crime figures and youth gang members.

VIPER, which has expanded to 80 members, was the first unit of its kind in Victoria, employing “target disruption” tactics against some of the state’s most significant crime players and their minions.

The VIPER taskforce has made more than 1000 arrests in its first two years.

Senior police say it has also played a major role in contemporary intelligence gathering as it targets criminals implicated in homicides, arsons and shootings.

VIPER’s strategies have been heavily in use over the past year as it has worked closely with Taskforce Lunar detectives tackling widespread arsons and violence linked to the illicit tobacco industry.

It has zeroed in on known smoke syndicate members, associates and those who facilitate their activities.

Since starting in July, 2022, VIPER has

LAID 2160 charges on 1028 offenders it arrested.

SEIZED 161 guns and imitation firearms.

SERVED 56 firearm prohibition orders and made 569 FPO checks.

MADE 1135 drug seizures.

On top of its work confiscating guns, VIPER has made 211 seizures of ammunition and firearms parts, including 3D printed equipment and parts.

VIPER, which stands for visibility, intelligence, prevention, enforcement and reassurance, has a regularly rotating workforce which has meant 225 members have served in the first two years.

The taskforce has been used in high-level operations against bikie clubs.

It was designed to be flexible enough for deployment anywhere in the state at short notice and has been deployed 80 times outside the metro area.

VIPER – which was devised in 2021 – has developed a strong working relationship with its NSW counterpart, the Raptor squad.

Detective Inspector Craig Darlow of VIPER said the number of arrests and charges spoke for itself and that the taskforce had become a fundamental element in the fight against serious and organised crime.

Insp. Darlow said it was success based on clinically and methodically targeting groups by co-operating with other sectors of the force and interstate law enforcement.

“We know that the methods employed by organised crime groups are continually evolving, so it is crucial that our methods of targeting these groups also evolve,” he said.

“We absolutely want to create that hostile environment.”