Cocaine, Cash Seized in Wide Bay Raid

Queensland police have charged 34 people with 148 offences and seized cocaine, cash, firearms and vehicles during a major investigation into alleged drug trafficking across the Wide Bay region and southeast Queensland.

Operation Xray Colugo began in March, targeting the alleged distribution of cocaine at licensed premises in Torquay and Scarness. Police allege the drugs were then supplied across the state, including between Brisbane and Gladstone.

Investigators seized 28 grams of cocaine and nearly $16,000 in cash after stopping a vehicle in Maryborough on July 15. The search also uncovered three firearms and ammunition. Further vehicle interceptions in Browns Plains and Pialba on August 5 resulted in the seizure of 1.25 kilograms of cocaine and more than $27,000 in cash.

Police also executed search warrants at multiple properties across the Wide Bay area and south Brisbane on August 5 and 6. In total, officers seized 2.87 kilograms of cocaine, more than $75,000 in cash, five vehicles and multiple firearms.

A 25-year-old Eli Waters man and a 35-year-old River Heads man were among those charged. Both were remanded in custody, with the men due to face separate magistrates courts in October and August respectively. Police said the operation demonstrated their commitment to disrupting the supply of dangerous drugs, particularly at licensed venues.