Operation Mike Peninsula, Taskforce Maxima
As part of ongoing enforcement action against criminal gangs and their networks, detectives from Taskforce Maxima, in conjunction with officers from North Brisbane and Moreton Districts, conducted Operation Mike Peninsula targeting the drug distribution networks of the Bandidos Criminal Motorcycle Gang.
The operation was conducted over a 6 month period using a variety of methodologies.
Phase 1 of the operation was conducted on 18 July 2014 with a series of early morning raids at addresses in the Redcliffe, Kippa Ring and Narangba areas resulting in enforcement action against 17 people on 53 charges.
These offences included supplying dangerous drugs, possession of dangerous drugs, unlawful possession of weapons and possession of tainted property, including a motorcycle and high-end mountain bike.
This morning the operation was finalised with the execution of ten simultaneous search warrants at addresses on the Redcliffe Peninsula, Kallangur, Mango Hill, North Lakes and Narangba.
Police will allege officers located dangerous drugs (cocaine, methyl-amphetamine (ICE), a hydroponic cannabis operation), weapons (Taser & knuckledusters), and drug paraphernalia.
Today’s actions have seen an additional 8 people arrested on 18 charges, including two people charged with trafficking in methyl-amphetamines (ICE) and cannabis.
In total, enforcement action has been taken against 32 people on 83 charges, with further arrests expected as investigations continue during the afternoon.
Taskforce Maxima Detective Inspector Brendan Smith said although criminal motorcycle gangs claim to be misunderstood, every day officers are arresting participants and members of their networks for alleged involvement in drug and property crime.
“Once again, we have found dangerous drugs and other unlawful property in possession of people with very clear links to criminal gangs,” Inspector Smith said.
“The links between these gangs and illegal drug distribution is clearly evident, as is the link between illegal drugs and property crime. This is why we are targeting them – their criminal activities are far reaching and they impact on everyday Queenslanders.
“This operation clearly demonstrates how Taskforce Maxima works hand in hand with local police to target CMG drug networks. It is having a real impact on everyday crime in these areas.”
Those charged with trafficking will face Redcliffe Magistrates Court this afternoon, with others issued with notices to appear.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
