- Published:
- Tuesday 14 April 2026 at 5:21 am
Detectives from the Major Drug Squad are today releasing CCTV and appealing for public assistance after locating a large quantity of drugs, cash, firearms and explosives in a short-term rental in Keilor East in January.
Police were called around 11.30am on 24 January when a cleaner attended the Belle Vista address, locating a significant amount of illicit drugs, firearms, explosives and cash in excess of $1M at the premises.
During a police search of the property, a number of incendiary devices were located, and the Bomb Response Unit and Australian Defence Force were called.
Controlled detonations occurred and the devices were rendered safe.
The property had been booked for a number of weeks in January. Investigators interviewed a male in relation to the booking and released him pending further enquiries.
As part of their investigation, detectives identified a white Toyota Camry hire vehicle which travelled to the address a number of times throughout the time it was rented.
A man is captured on CCTV filling up the hired car at a service station on the Western Ring Road in Ardeer South on 25 December 2025.
Police believe this man will be able to assist with their enquiries and are keen to hear from anyone who recognises him.
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The Camry was seized by police on 24 January and has since been returned to the hire company.
The man in the vision is not the man who hired the car. Investigators have spoken to the man who hired the car and he has not been co-operative with police.
Anyone who recognises the man in the CCTV or with any further information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit an anonymous report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
Quotes attributable to Detective Inspector Jamie Walker, Major Drug Squad:
“I would urge anyone out there who recognises this man or who has any information on the items located at this accommodation to do the right thing and come forward.
“This was not a run of the mill seizure of drugs and cash – there were incendiary devices and a large quantity of firearms. This is organised crime.
“We will track down those responsible and hold them to account. It would be in your best interests to tell us what you know now.”
Media Unit
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