Detectives from the Echo Taskforce have today seized a range of items including a firearm, ammunition and cash as part of an ongoing investigation into an alleged Middle Eastern organised crime syndicate.
Warrants were executed at a business address in Airport West and a residential property in Hillside this morning.
Investigators located a quantity of what is believed to be explosives, as well as a hand gun, spear gun, boxes of ammunition of various calibers, cocaine, steroids and what appears to be about $100,000 cash.
A 39-year-old Hillside man was arrested and has subsequently been charged with firearms, explosives, weapons and drug offences.
He was bailed to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court at a later date.
The investigation into the activities of the organised crime syndicate commenced in October 2020 with a focus on the syndicate’s access to firearms, large-scale drug importation and unexplained wealth.
Echo Taskforce detectives have made in excess of 30 arrests relating to the investigation into this syndicate’s activities to date.
Investigations into the syndicate remain ongoing and Victoria Police urge anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or to submit at confidential crime report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.auExternal Link
