MORE than 100 offenders and 30 weapons have been processed by a police taskforce, established three months ago, to crack down on serious criminal activity in Melbourne’s northwest.
Taskforce Acer was set-up after a series of dangerous crimes occurred in the northern suburbs earlier this year, including the shooting and firebombing of houses and cars in Glenroy, Coolaroo and Jacana.
The incidents were allegedly linked to a drugs and gang war.
Last week, Victoria Police said the Acer team has dealt with more than 103 offenders, seized 31 firearms, a large quantity of ammunition suitable for use in an AK47, cash and illegal drugs since 18 July.
The offenders were processed for crimes including drug trafficking and manufacturing, possession of prohibited weapons and traffic enforcement.
Acer members also impounded seven vehicles, issued 164 penalty notices and seized equipment used to manufacture illicit drugs, while the Sheriff’s Office seized more than $756,000 in cash.
Acting Superintendent Stephen Mutton said Taskforce Acer had executed more than 30 search warrants in suburbs including Greenvale, Meadow Heights, Roxburgh Park, Campbellfield, Glenroy, Laverton, Tarneit, Craigieburn, Gladstone Park, Lalor and Hoppers Crossing.
Acting Supt Mutton said police understood there community concern over the shootings in the northern suburbs.
Anyone with information the incidents can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
