Detectives from the Vehicle Crime Squad last week arrested three people, seized various drugs and recovered stolen cars, trailers, motorbikes and a prime mover truck and speed boat following an investigation into the theft, rebirthing and on selling of stolen vehicles.
With the assistance of Hume Criminal Investigation Unit, Fawkner Divisional Response Unit, Dog Squad, Vehicle Examination Unit, Hume City Council and the Environment Protection Authority, a warrant was executed at a Somerton Road property in Bulla on Wednesday, 10 August.
A suspected clandestine laboratory was also located, with glassware and what are believed to be pre-cursor chemicals in two different locations on the property.
Police subsequently seized five stolen cars, a stolen speed boat, six stolen trailers, three stolen motorbikes and a stolen prime mover truck, as well as various drugs of dependence, including methylamphetamine, MDMA, GHB, prescription medications, heroin and flares.
A 57-year-old Bulla man was charged with traffick drug of dependence, possess drug of dependence, handle stolen goods, theft, criminal damage and possess distress signal.
He was remanded to appear at Broadmeadows Magistrates' Court on 5 September.
A 45-year-old Bulla woman was charged with traffick drug of dependence, possess drug of dependence, handle stolen goods and commit indictable offence whilst on bail.
She was bailed to appear at Broadmeadows Magistrates' Court on 29 September.
A 43-year-old Bulla man at the property was arrested for an unrelated matter and is expected to be charged on summons.
Anyone with information about vehicle rebirthing or illicit drug activity is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.auExternal Link
Quotes attributable to Detective Sergeant Steve Boskovski, Vehicle Crime Squad:
"The wider ramifications of this kind of crime can ripple through to the entire community - from someone who can't get to work or get their kids to school because their car's been stolen, to insurance premiums being raised for everyone to cover the costs of vehicle theft.
"The Vehicle Crime Squad will continue to target those contributing to organised motor vehicle crime in Victoria and shut down any illegal activity of this nature.
"There are a number of businesses and operations currently on our radar, so if you are acting illegally or profiting from illegal motor vehicles, parts or scrap metal, you can expect a visit from us.
"We'd also invite anyone with information about illegal activity to please contact Crime Stoppers - it can be done anonymously, and we'll continue to act on these reports."
