Fourteen arrested in series of Melbourne meth raids
Fourteen people have been arrested after police raided more than a dozen properties in Melbourne's south, seizing drugs and a fake gun.
Police searched 13 properties simultaneously on Monday morning as part of a 10-month investigation into a suspected methamphetamine trafficking ring.
Police say a manufacturing laboratory was found in Braeside while the Critical Incident Response Team had to force entry into a Hampton Park property.
Officers are still searching the 13 properties in Chelsea, Aspendale, Hampton Park, Springvale South, Notting Hill, Dandenong, Cheltenham, Moorabbin, Seaford, Frankston, Mordialloc and Braeside.
Investigators have so far uncovered methamphetamine, other drugs including heroin and cannabis, cash, an imitation firearm, stolen property and drug paraphernalia.
Detective Senior Sergeant Shane Rix said the bust was significant and would disrupt the supply of methamphetamine in Victoria.
"The arrests today have dismantled an organised crime syndicate which until now has profited from our community.
"What we have seen is the syndicate trafficking drugs for stolen property and steal from our communities," he said in a statement.
“Unfortunately the demand for these types of illicit substances continues to grow, so those who use and buy need to know they are contributing to organised crime.
“Whilst the operation and the warrants today have made a significant impact on the syndicate we still have more work to do and the investigation is ongoing,” Sgt Rix said.
News break – August 15
