A Victorian man who allegedly attempted to enter NSW using an invalid permit last night has been charged after police also located a knife, cash and drug paraphernalia in his vehicle.
Officers from Operation Border Closure were conducting permit checks at a checkpoint on Wodonga Place, South Albury, when they stopped a Holden Captiva about 6pm (Tuesday 4 August 2020).
Police spoke with the 36-year-old male driver who produced a permit but was unable to provide any documentation or evidence relating to the essential work he would be conducting in NSW.
When questioned further, the man allegedly became aggressive towards police and refused to cooperate.
It’s alleged the man wound his window up and attempted to drive off before officers were able to stop the vehicle, but the man refused to get out or comply with police directions.
After further officers came to assist, the man opened the driver’s door and was arrested.
During a subsequent search of the man and his vehicle, police located a knife, $1600 cash and a bag containing items consistent with the supply of illicit drugs.
He was taken to Albury Police Station, where he was charged with not complying with noticed direction – COVID 19, goods in custody and having custody of a knife in a public place.
The Rutherglen man was granted strict conditional bail and returned to Victoria. He is due to appear at Albury Local Court on Monday 21 September 2020.
Police continue to appeal to the community to report suspected breaches of any ministerial direction or behaviour which may impact on the health and safety of the community.
Anyone who has information regarding individuals or businesses in contravention of a COVID-19-related ministerial direction is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence.
