Queensland authorities have struck a major blow against organised crime, dismantling an alleged sophisticated drug trafficking network and charging eleven individuals. Among those facing serious charges is a former Cairns man who police allege has connections to the notorious Lone Wolf outlaw motorcycle gang.
Major Police Operation Targets Alleged Syndicate
The extensive police investigation, dubbed Operation Romeo Sienna, culminated in a series of coordinated raids across South East Queensland on Tuesday, May 21. The operation involved officers from the Drug and Serious Crime Group's Major and Organised Crime Squad.
During the raids, police executed search warrants at twelve properties located in suburbs including North Lakes, Mango Hill, Griffin, and Morayfield. The alleged syndicate is accused of trafficking large quantities of dangerous drugs, including methylamphetamine and cocaine, across the state.
A total of eleven people, comprising ten men and one woman aged between 24 and 42, were arrested and charged with a range of serious offences. These charges include trafficking in dangerous drugs, possessing dangerous drugs, and possessing items used in the commission of a crime.
Cairns Man's Alleged Gang Links Revealed
One of the key figures charged is a 33-year-old former Cairns man, who now resides in the North Lakes area. Detectives allege this man played a significant role in the syndicate's operations and has links to the Lone Wolf outlaw motorcycle gang.
The man faced the Brisbane Magistrates Court on Wednesday, May 22, alongside several other co-accused. He was specifically charged with one count of trafficking in dangerous drugs and two counts of possessing dangerous drugs. The court proceedings mark a significant step in the ongoing legal process against the alleged network.
Police investigations suggest the syndicate utilised sophisticated methods to distribute illicit substances. The seizure of items such as a hydraulic press, commonly used in drug packaging, indicates a high level of organisation within the alleged criminal group.
Ongoing Efforts to Combat Organised Crime
Detective Acting Superintendent Mark Slater of the Drug and Serious Crime Group emphasised the significance of the operation. He stated that the arrests demonstrate the continued commitment of Queensland Police to target and disrupt syndicates supplying harmful drugs into communities.
"The harm caused by the distribution of these drugs is significant and far-reaching," Acting Superintendent Slater said. He praised the diligent work of investigators who pieced together the alleged network's activities over a considerable period.
The arrests follow a similar major operation in March 2024, where seven people were charged over an alleged drug trafficking syndicate also operating in the Moreton Bay region. Police have signalled that investigations into this latest syndicate remain active and further charges have not been ruled out.
All eleven individuals charged have been remanded in custody and are scheduled to reappear in court at later dates. The Queensland Police Service has reiterated its zero-tolerance approach to drug trafficking and its ongoing collaboration with other agencies to combat organised crime at all levels.
