OFF THE WIRE
The arrest of five men, including four alleged members of a bikie gang, will crush an organised drug syndicate operating from a bikie clubhouse in Melbourne's west, police say.
Five men, including four who are believed to be members of the Bros motorcycle club, were arrested on Thursday following police raids in which amphetamines and four firearms were seized.
One man was arrested at the Bros motorcycle clubhouse in Yarraville while the remaining four arrests took place at homes in Yarraville, Werribee and Wyndham Vale.
The men, a 55-year-old from Werribee, a 24-year-old from Wyndham Vale, two Yarraville men, aged 25 and 41, and a 47-year-old from Braybrook, are being questioned by police.
Detective Inspector David Jones said the arrests and seizures prevented amphetamines and firearms from being released on Melbourne's streets."It is very satisfying to think we have stopped dangerous weapons, firearms and drugs invading our community," he said.
"I believe the arrest of these men and the seizures will absolutely crush what could be described as an organised drug syndicate, which we believe has been operating out of the motorcycle clubhouse."
Inspector Jones said organised crime groups often operated in the illicit drug market because of the profits to be made.
"Outlaw motorcycle gangs who use firearms and violence or intimidation need to understand and be put on notice, that Victoria Police will actively target those involved," he said.
"The successful conclusion of today's operation is a great example of Victoria Police working together to ensure the streets and our families are kept safe from people who try to benefit from the illegal distribution of drugs on our streets."
The raids concluded a 12-month long operation by the Drug Task Force into suspected drug trafficking in Melbourne's western suburbs.
http://news.ninemsn.com.au/national/8245398/victorian-police-crush-bikie-drug-ring