The Crime and Corruption Commission (CCC) is aware of the decisions handed down in the Southport Magistrates Court yesterday and today not to commit four men to stand trial on drugs charges.
Three other men who are also facing drug charges have consented to a full hand-up committal and those matters will proceed to trial.
All of the charges were laid as a result of the CCC’s Operation Quaker, which has focused on a syndicate that was allegedly couriering cocaine from Sydney to the Gold Coast and distributing it throughout the Gold Coast and other regional centres in Queensland. The 18-month investigation has so far resulted in the seizure of drugs worth an estimated $1.49 million.
During the investigation evidence came to light which identified the seven men mentioned above contacting members of the alleged syndicate.
The CCC carefully considered all evidence and sought legal advice before proceeding with the charges. As the CCC has previously stated, the courts are the appropriate place for evidence to be presented and tested.
The CCC accepts the court outcomes.
To date the CCC has charged 33 people with 252 offences as part of Operation Quaker, including charges of drug trafficking and supply.
28 of these matters are still before the courts.
This includes four targets in New South Wales who were allegedly identified operating at the highest levels of the syndicate.
Given that a number of related matters are still before the courts, and the investigation is ongoing, it is inappropriate for the CCC to make any further comment.
ENDS
