NSW police make drug arrests in alpine region

Officers in the Southern Region arrested 18 people during an operation conducted over the weekend in the state’s Snowy Mountains.

Operation Azure ran from Friday (16 August 2019) to Saturday (17 August 2019) across licensed premises in Jindabyne, Thredbo and Perisher.

Police from the Region Enforcement Squad (Southern Region) and Monaro Police District took part in the two-day operation, arresting people for a range of offences including drug supply, possession and fail to quit.

As part of the two-day operation, police patrolled 13 licensed premises and searched 60 people.

Court attendance notices were issued to eight people for charges of possess prohibited drug.

A further five people were issued with a cannabis caution, three issued with move on directions and one person issued a fail to quit.

Operation commander Detective Chief Inspector Joseph Thone was pleased with the policing efforts and results of the operation in the snowfields.

“Each year, the NSW Police Force works to maintain the safety of visitors in the alpine region through high visibility policing and specific drug and Traffic enforcement operations.

“I can assure the community that we are using numerous methods to proactively target individuals and groups who are involved in illegal drug supply, drug use and anti-social behaviour.

“We will also not be tolerating anyone who puts the public at risk by driving on our roads under the influence of alcohol or drugs.”

Police will continue to conduct operations that target road safety, alcohol-related crime, anti-social behaviour and personal safety during the 2019 snow season.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence.

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