Eight additional arrests as drug syndicate dismantled, NSW

Twelve people are now before the courts as investigations continue into an alleged drug supply operation in the state’s south west.

In December 2019, Strike Force Merrigong was established by the Southern Region Enforcement Squad to investigate the supply of prohibited drugs in the Riverina area.

Strike force investigators arrested two men and two women last Tuesday (11 February 2020) over their alleged involvement in the supply of MDMA, amphetamines and cocaine throughout the region.

Following extensive investigations, a further eight people were identified as playing roles within the alleged drug syndicate.

On Thursday (13 February 2020), a 31-year-old man was arrested and charged with eight drug supply offences and participate in criminal group offence. He was granted strict conditional bail and is due to face Wagga Wagga Local Court on 25 March 2020.

On Friday (14 February 2020), a 19-year-old man was arrested and charged with three drug supply offences. He was granted strict conditional bail and is due to face Wagga Wagga Local Court on 15 April 2020.

Yesterday (Monday 17 February 2020), a 22-year-old man was arrested and charged with seven drug supply offences and participate in criminal group. He was granted strict conditional bail and is due to face Wagga Wagga Local Court on 15 April 2020.

Four additional 19-year-old men and a 30-year-old man were also charged with drug supply offences. All five men were granted conditional bail and will face Wagga Wagga Local Court on 25 March 2020.

Southern Region Operations Manager, Detective Superintendent Kevin McNeil said local drug supply will take a major hit as a result of these arrests.

“These arrests highlight the great work being undertaken by our Region Enforcement Squad alongside local police,” Det Supt McNeil said.

“If anyone in the community has any information about the supply of illegal drugs, I would urge them to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or local police.

Inquiries are continuing.