Two charged with drug supply in Armidale – Strike Force Malebo

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Two people will face court charged following an investigation into the supply of prohibited drugs in the state’s Northern Tablelands during a targeted police operation.

In August 2023, officers attached to New England Police District established Strike Force Malebo to investigate the supply of prohibited drugs in the Armidale area.

Just after 6.30am yesterday (Wednesday 22 May 2024), strike force officers executed three search warrants simultaneously at homes in Armidale.

Officers located and seized, methamphetamine, ammunition, prohibited weapons, testosterone, and drug paraphernalia.

About 6.30am, officers attended a caravan park in Armidale, and arrested a 29-year-old man.

He was taken to Armidale Police Station and charged with supply prohibited drug – indictable quantity, owner/occupier knowingly allow use as drug premises, participate criminal group contribute criminal activity, and breach of bail. He was also charged with three unrelated traffic offences.

The man was refused bail and appeared at Armidale Local Court today (Thursday 23 May 2024).

About 9am, police attended another home in Armidale, and arrested a 42-year-old man.

He was taken to Armidale Police Station and charged with supply prohibited drugs on an ongoing basis.

The man was given conditional bail to appear at Armidale Local Court on Monday 17 June 2024.

Inquiries are continuing.

New England Police District Crime Manager, Detective Inspector Kingsley Chapman, said local police will continue to target prohibited drug supply.

“The harm caused by these prohibited substances to local communities cannot be understated,” he said.

“Police work with the community to proactively pursue anyone suspected of supplying prohibited drugs and disrupt the associated criminal activities which impact on the people of Armidale,” Insp Chapman said.

Anyone with information related to the supply of prohibited drugs within the New England Police District is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or local police.