Major Illicit Cache Found in Melbourne Short-Term Rental

Police have released CCTV images of a person of interest after a cleaner discovered drugs, firearms, incendiary devices, and over one million dollars in cash at a Keilor East property.

Victoria Police are investigating the discovery of a large cache of illicit items at a short-term rental property in Keilor East, Melbourne, following a report from a cleaner on January 24. The seizure included drugs, firearms, incendiary devices, and more than one million dollars in cash.

Discovery and Initial Response

On January 24, a cleaner discovered a quantity of drugs, firearms, incendiary devices, and over one million dollars in cash at a short-term rental property in Keilor East, Melbourne. Victoria Police were called to the scene.

Due to the presence of the incendiary devices, the Bomb Response Unit and the Australian Defence Force attended the property and conducted controlled detonations. Police stated the property had been rented for several weeks in January.

Investigation Details

• Police have interviewed one man in relation to the property booking. He was released pending further enquiries.
• Investigators have released CCTV images of a man they wish to speak to. The images show an individual refueling a white Toyota Camry at a service station on the Western Ring Road in Ardeer on December 25 (Christmas Day).
• Police stated the vehicle was hired from a rental company and made several visits to the Keilor East property during the rental period.
• Authorities said the man in the CCTV image is not the person who hired the vehicle. Police further stated that the person who hired the vehicle is not cooperating with the investigation.

Police Statement

Detective Inspector Jamie Walker from the Major Drug Squad commented on the seizure. He stated the find was notable due to the combination of items, specifically citing "incendiary devices and a large quantity of firearms."

Detective Inspector Walker characterized the discovery as indicative of organized crime and urged anyone with information to contact police.