Detectives in North Queensland have successfully disrupted a major drug trafficking network operating in Townsville, resulting in four arrests and the seizure of significant quantities of illicit substances and cash.
Operation Romeo Verdi leads to major bust
The arrests are the culmination of a targeted investigation, known as Operation Romeo Verdi, conducted by the Townsville Criminal Investigation Branch's Major and Organised Crime unit. The operation focused on the alleged trafficking of dangerous drugs within the community.
On Wednesday, 17 April 2024, police executed a search warrant at a residence on Bayswater Road in Kirwan. During the search, officers located and seized a substantial amount of evidence, including a quantity of what is believed to be methylamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and a sum of cash.
A 36-year-old Kirwan man was arrested at the scene and subsequently charged with a total of 15 offences. These charges include multiple counts of supplying dangerous drugs, possessing dangerous drugs, and possessing anything used in the commission of a crime.
Further arrests and vehicle seizure
The operation widened on Thursday, 18 April, when detectives intercepted a vehicle on University Road in Townsville. A search of this vehicle allegedly uncovered a quantity of methylamphetamine and more cash. A 33-year-old Wulguru man was arrested and charged with one count each of supplying a dangerous drug and possessing a dangerous drug.
Later that same day, police executed another search warrant, this time at a home on Mendelsohn Street in Wulguru. Here, investigators seized further drug-related items and a vehicle suspected of being used in the trafficking operation.
This led to the arrest of two more individuals: a 37-year-old Wulguru woman and a 40-year-old Wulguru man. The woman was charged with possessing dangerous drugs and possessing property suspected of being the proceeds of crime. The man was charged with one count of supplying a dangerous drug.
Community impact and police message
All four individuals have been formally charged and are scheduled to appear in the Townsville Magistrates Court at later dates. The operation represents a significant blow to the local drug trade, removing a pipeline of harmful substances from the streets.
Acting Detective Senior Sergeant of the Townsville CIB emphasised the ongoing commitment of police to target organised crime. "This operation demonstrates our relentless focus on disrupting the supply of illicit drugs into our community," the officer stated. "We will continue to proactively investigate and hold to account those who seek to profit from the harm caused by dangerous drugs."
The police have encouraged anyone with information about drug trafficking or organised crime in their area to come forward and contact Crime Stoppers anonymously.
