Police arrested five people at Warrnambool, Merino, Hamilton, Nelson and Camperdown.
POLICE arrested five people and seized drugs and a firearm during raids across the south-west yesterday.
Detectives from Hamilton, Portland and Warrnambool were joined by uniform police members to execute warrants on residential properties at Warrnambool, Merino, Hamilton, Nelson and Camperdown.
The execution of the warrants was co-ordinated after police gained information from members of the public.
Police divisional crime advisor Detective Senior Sergeant Mark Canavan thanked people for their assistance and support of police. “Drugs is one of the key drivers of crime across the state,” he said.
“Public support for police operations to combat drugs and linked crime, such as burglary and theft, is vital to the success of our operations. The more information provided the better we can do our job,” he said.
As a result of the raids, police located more than one kilogram of cannabis and a quantity of white powder, believed to be amphetamine.
An unregistered firearm, chainsaws and tools were also seized by the police at the Merino property.
Detective Senior Sergeant Canavan said police believed the firearm, the chainsaws and tools had been stolen and inquiries were continuing. A 40-year-old man has been charged in relation to other offences.
A 37-year-old man appeared in Warrnambool Magistrates Court yesterday charged with cultivate and possess cannabis.
Police alleged the man had a grow room hidden by a false wall inside a shed at this Warrnambool property. Eight plants were found inside the room under lights and a heating lamp.
Three people were also charged and have been released on bail to appear in court at a later date.
Detective Senior Sergeant Canavan said one man was still assisting police with their inquiries.
Anyone with information about drug offences or any other criminal activity is requested to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.