A Cairns man has been sent to prison for his role in supplying cocaine to patrons in the city's bustling bar and nightclub district.
Undercover Operation Nets Dealer
Saifu Savage, 25, faced the Cairns District Court this week after pleading guilty to a total of 12 charges. These charges included multiple counts of supplying a dangerous drug and one count of possessing a dangerous drug.
The court was told that Queensland Police conducted an undercover operation targeting street-level drug supply in the Cairns CBD. Between September and November 2023, Savage sold cocaine to an undercover police officer on five separate occasions.
The transactions took place in and around popular nightlife venues on Spence Street and Lake Street. The amounts sold ranged from small, personal-use quantities up to 1.75 grams.
Caught with Drugs at Home
Police later executed a search warrant at Savage's Manoora home in November 2023. During the search, officers found and seized a small quantity of cocaine, leading to the possession charge.
In court, Savage's defence lawyer argued his client had a limited criminal history and had shown genuine remorse. The lawyer stated Savage was struggling financially at the time and made a series of poor decisions.
However, Judge Anthony Rafter noted the serious nature of supplying drugs within the community. He emphasised that cocaine dealing causes significant harm and that general deterrence was a key factor in sentencing.
Jail Sentence Handed Down
Judge Rafter sentenced Saifu Savage to 18 months in prison. The court ordered that Savage be released on parole after serving six months of that sentence.
The sentence sends a clear message about the consequences of drug dealing in Far North Queensland. Police have reiterated their commitment to targeting the supply of illicit substances in entertainment precincts to ensure public safety.
This case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat the street-level drug trade that operates in and around licensed venues in Cairns.
