Police have seized various quantities of drugs of dependence following a four-day operation targeting Firearm Prohibition Order (FPO) compliance across greater Geelong.
The joint operation between the VIPER Taskforce and local Geelong police saw the execution of 14 FPO compliance searches in North Shore, Corio, Leopold, Boonah, Lara (2), Armstrong Creek, Ocean Grove, Norlane, Waurn Ponds, Queenscliff, Hamlyn Heights, Charlemont and Curlewis
Between Sunday 2 February Wednesday 5 February, investigators seized various quantities of what appear to be cannabis, cocaine, MDMA, steroids and ketamine.
An 18-year-old Leopold man was issued with a cannabis caution, a 42-year-old Armstrong Creek man was issued with a drug diversion and a 36-year-old Hamlyn Heights man was interviewed in relation to the offence of possess drug of dependence and is expected to be charged on summons.
Since they were introduced in May 2018, Victoria Police has issued over 2300 FPOs across the state. Once issued, an FPO remains in effect for 10 years for adults and five years for children, which is those between 14 and 17 years of age.
During that time, the individual is prohibited from acquiring, possessing, carrying or using any firearm or firearm related item such as ammunition. They are also unable to enter a range of premises including firearms dealers, shooting ranges firearms clubs.
The charges relating to FPOs are significant - 10 years imprisonment for acquiring, possessing, carrying or using a firearm or firearm related item.
Anyone with information about illicit firearm or drug activity is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report to www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
