The fallout from this week’s raids sees more alleged criminals behind bars and less drugs on the streets.
But the implications aren’t all positive, especially when focusing on the real victims of drug crime.
Griffith LAC led the way inflicting a large dent in MIA drug crime on Wednesday when strike force members reined in known and unknown alleged criminal identities in several locations around the region.
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It was a big coup for the Griffith LAC, on the verge of landmark changes seeing its organisation re-branded and reshuffled to become the Murrumbidgee Police District.
Despite the LAC claiming perhaps one of its final big fish of its tenure, not even the police on the ground will be under any illusions the action puts an end to drug dealing in the MIA.
What it may do, however, is provide some respite.
There were 25 alleged offenders identified in a wide-spread drug bust in Leeton on Wednesday as part of an operation focusing on the illicit supply of prohibited drugs.
Police have since arrested and charged 14 people with drug supply offences.
During the execution of the warrants, police allegedly seized drugs including cannabis, cocaine, ‘ice’, MDMA as well as prohibited weapons including a flick knife, an electronic stun device and cash.
Police say the warrants mark the culmination of Strike Force Walther, run by Detectives from Griffith into the illicit supply of prohibited drugs in the Leeton area.
The web of drug users and dealers runs far wider than the 25 implicated in this week’s raids.
With every action, there’s a reaction, so there’s still plenty of work to do cleaning up the fallout.
Many of the casual users, small-time sellers and out-and-out addicts will also feel the effects, for the short-term at least.
While there’s less drugs on the streets, and more alleged criminals behind bars, expect the majority of people affected to find another way to find their fix, make their money or generally fill their time.
There are also opportunities to take more steps towards stamping out drugs on our streets.
Those falling under the veil of these alleged drug suppliers’ web are now vulnerable, and looking for relief. It’s time to boast those locally and state-funding programs offering respite, support and alternatives for MIA drug addicts.
