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Byron Shire
March 28, 2024

Four arrested in North Coast drug syndicate raids

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Two of the men arrested in Tuesday’s (May 29) raids. Photo NSW Police

Four people will face court following investigations by Strike Force Trevalsa into a large-scale drug supply syndicate allegedly operating on the North Coast.

About 1.30pm Tuesday (May 29) police arrested a 26-year-old Byron Bay man in Chinderah.

Officers also raided three homes in Byron Bay, Lismore Heights and Bilinga (Queensland).

7kg seized

During the searches, police located 3.4kg of MDMA, 1.5kg of cannabis and a quantity of cocaine.

Three other men, aged 22, 45 and 53, were arrested and taken to Byron Bay Police Station.

Richmond Police District Crime Manager, Detective Inspector Cameron Lindsay said investigators were ‘pleased with the outcome of the arrests’.

‘With the seizure of seven kilograms of illicit drugs, and the arrest of four people, we know we have been able to reduce the availability of drugs in this area,’ said Det Insp Lindsay.

‘The drugs we have seized during this operation are highly addictive and destructive and it is imperative to our community to get these drugs off our streets.

‘Keeping these drugs out of the hands of those who seek to profit and to keep our community safe, is our priority.

‘We need the community to continue supporting the police by providing vital information and help to change the acceptance of drugs in our community,’ said Det Insp Lindsay.

Multiple charges

The 26-year-old man was charged with an outstanding warrant, supplying a prohibited (drug large commercial quantity), supplying a prohibited drug and knowingly directing the activities of a criminal group.

He was refused bail to appear at Tweed Heads Local Court today (Wednesday May, 30).

The 22-year-old man was charged with supplying a prohibited drug (large commercial quantity), supplying a prohibited drug and participating in criminal group.

He was refused bail to also appear at Lismore Local Court.

The 45-year-old man was charged with supplying a prohibited drug, participating in criminal group and possessing a prohibited drug.

He was granted conditional bail to appear at Byron Bay Local Court on Thursday June 21.

The 53-year-old man was charged with supplying a prohibited drug, participating in criminal group, possessing a prohibited drug and possessing or using a prohibited weapon without permission.

He was refused bail to appear at Byron Bay Local Court today.

Investigations are continuing and further charges are expected.

Police are urging anyone with information in relation to this incident to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or use the Crime Stoppers online reporting page: https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au/


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