Gold Coast Drug Busts Unveiled

In a significant crackdown on drug-related activities, detectives from the Gold Coast Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB) have charged two men from Willow Vale following separate but detailed investigations into drug production and possession. The operations reveal a concerning trend of sophisticated drug manufacturing setups in residential areas.

On January 21, a police raid on a property on Ruffles Road led to the discovery of a hydroponic grow tent inside a bedroom. This raid unearthed not only cannabis but also a crossbow, a butterfly knife, ammunition, fireworks, prescription medications, and various drug-related utensils. A 48-year-old local man faces multiple charges, including the possession and production of dangerous drugs, possession of category M weapons, and possessing explosives. He is scheduled to appear before the Southport Magistrates Court on February 18.

A separate raid conducted at a property on Coulter Road exposed an even more elaborate setup. Investigators found a sophisticated underground bunker, accessible via a remote-controlled elevator hidden beneath a concrete floor. The bunker housed multiple rooms designed specifically for the cultivation of hydroponic cannabis, complete with grow rooms, drying rooms, and a packaging area. Authorities seized 24 mature cannabis plants, 20 immature plants, and 10.5 kilograms of packaged cannabis. A 45-year-old man from this residence has been charged with producing and supplying dangerous drugs among other offenses. His court appearance is set for February 26 at the same magistrate’s court.

These operations underscore the ongoing efforts by Queensland Police to combat drug-related crimes in the region. Investigations into both cases continue as authorities urge anyone with information to come forward and assist by contacting Policelink or reporting anonymously via Crime Stoppers. The community’s cooperation is pivotal in curbing the drug menace that threatens neighborhood safety and wellbeing.