Jordan Doherty
Police from the VIPER Taskforce have seized firearms, ammunition and drugs as part of three separate operations across Melbourne over the past week.
A 48-year-old St Albans man was charged with firearm and drug offences after police executed warrants at a St Albans address on December 13 as part of an investigation into firearm and drug trafficking.
The VIPER Taskforce is a tactical and investigative unit based within Crime Command focused on preventing, detecting, deterring, disrupting and dismantling the criminal activities of groups such as outlaw motorcycle gangs, organised crime networks and street gangs.
The taskforce, which was set up in July 2022, supports the work of specialist investigation units and regional police by assisting with investigation tactics and enforcement actions.
VIPER stands for visibility, intelligence, prevention, enforcement and reassurance.
Detective Inspector Craig Darlow said firearm seizures were important in keeping the community safe.
“Any firearm seizure is satisfying because it has an immediate impact on community safety. Taking these weapons out of the hands of criminals means they can’t be used to inflict further harm or commit further serious offences. These results also highlight how often we see firearms offences occurring in conjunction with drug offences,” Det Insp Darlow said.
“VIPER taskforce will continue to target this activity and I urge anyone with information about illicit firearms or drugs to come forward and contact Crime Stoppers.”
Crime Stoppers can be reached on 1800 333 000 or make a confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
