Police have shut down a major drug trafficking syndicate in south-east Queensland, allegedly seizing over 18 kilograms of methylamphetamine and more than half a million dollars cash.
Queensland police have charged 29 people with more than 180 offences, including 12 charged with trafficking, following a 14-month operation, supported by federal agencies and specialist police.
Detectives based at Carseldine on Brisbane's northside allegedly seized more than 18 kilograms of methylamphetamine, approximately $556,000 in cash and two firearms, as well as "significant amounts" of ketamine and cocaine.
It will be alleged that the drug syndicate sold dangerous drugs worth an estimated $50 million in one year.
A spokesperson said investigations also allegedly identified more than 25 drug couriers connected to an Upper Mount Gravatt man who supplied methylamphetamine.
The 35-year-old has been charged with several drug-related offences, including drug trafficking.
Detective Senior Sergeant Ken Rogers said police executed 23 search warrants during the investigation.
Up to 50 officers raided three properties around Ipswich in the last three months of the operation.
"It ultimately resulted in a property at Kholo near Ipswich being having a search warrant executed, where a fairly elaborate drug lab was set up which were producing large-scale methylamphetamine," Detective Senior Sergeant Rogers said.
Police deliver 'knockout blow' to syndicate
In the search this month officers allegedly located 12 kilograms of methylamphetamine and a demountable with items used to produce illicit drugs.
Last month detectives searched a vehicle allegedly used by the syndicate and located 6 kilograms of methamphetamine and $330,000 cash.
A 61-year-old Kholo man was charged with several offences including drug trafficking and possessing dangerous drugs and has been granted bail to re-appear in the Brisbane Magistrates Court later this month.
Detective Senior Sergeant Rogers said police have delivered a "knockout blow" to the drug syndicate that operated at a "sophisticated level".
He said the drugs and chemicals were imported from overseas into Sydney, and then trafficked up to Brisbane to be produced and sold.
"Each person in the syndicate had a role and that those roles varied whether it be the actual selling of the drug itself, organising of encrypted apps, or the managing of the money," he said.
The others accused are before the courts, facing sentences of up to 20 years in prison.
