A Botanic Ridge man is one of 26 people arrested by the Frankston Crime Investigation Unit as part of Operation Washed last month.
The investigation commenced in February after local police identified an increase in criminal activity around short-stay accommodation and licensed premises in Frankston, Seaford and Carrum Downs.
The 35-year-old was located near a licensed premises in Seaford allegedly in possession of imitation firearms, knives, nunchuks and drugs of dependence on 1 March, police say.
He was charged with four counts of possess imitation firearm, two counts of possess prohibited weapon, possess dangerous article, possess controlled weapon, possession of cannabis, three counts of assault police and reckless conduct endangering serious injury.
He was bailed to appear at the Frankston Magistrates’ Court on 15 July.
To date, 26 people have been arrested as part of the operation for various offences including drug trafficking, drug possession, weapon possession, firearms offences, possession of proceeds of crime, contravening court orders, assaults, driving offences, and bail act offences.
A Victoria Police spokesperson said licensed premises and surrounding areas should be “a safe place for all patrons and members of our community.”
“There are increased penalties for the possession of weapons around licensed premises and there is no excuse for bringing them to these locations,” the spokesperson said.
“If you think you can come to these areas and engage in criminal conduct, think again. We will find you and will not hesitate to being you before the courts.”
The operation is continuing with police actively targeting people frequenting these premises and the surrounding areas for the purpose of conducting criminal activity.
Anyone with information regarding illegal activity is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or to submit at confidential crime report at crimestoppersvic.com.au
