Police have seized more than seven kilograms of drugs and nabbed 16 alleged dealers following a six-month investigation focused on Fortitude Valley nightclubs.
Detectives executed 10 search warrants during the operation, which allegedly resulted in the seizure of 5.6 kilograms of methylamphetamine, 2.8 kilograms of cocaine, a large amount of MDMA capsules and 23 grams of ketamine, as well as $550,000 in cash.
In a video released by police, one officer can be heard saying “that’s heavy” when picking up a Woolworths cooler bag full of cash and bricks of white powder.
Officers laid six drug-trafficking charges and 31 drug supply charges, as well as a multitude of other lesser charges.
Among the more serious charges, a 29-year-old Meadowbrook man was charged with four counts of supplying a dangerous drug, two counts of trafficking and receiving or possessing property obtained through trafficking.
Two men from Coopers Plains — aged 24 and 25, respectively — are also facing trafficking charges.
All 16 alleged dealers are men, and will appear in the Brisbane Magistrates Court on various dates early next year.
Evidence seized during the months-long investigation.Credit: QPS
Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Stephen Bull said the operation was targeted at limiting the amount of hard drugs being sold in the Brisbane party precinct.
“It’s a timely reminder for those planning on celebrating New Year’s events that we will continue our efforts to keep the community safe and target drug suppliers,” he said.
Start the day with a summary of the day’s most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.
