Victoria Police have arrested 29 people during a major investigation into alleged drug manufacturing and organised criminal activity across Melbourne’s northern and eastern suburbs. Detectives also uncovered two suspected illegal casinos operating from properties in Carnegie and Box Hill, according to an ABC News report published on 23 October 2026.

The investigation involved searches at several locations, including Bundoora, Carnegie, Box Hill, Balwyn North and South Melbourne. Police allege the activities uncovered during the operation were connected to a broader network involving suspected drug trafficking, illegal gambling and other offences. Drugs, cash and weapons seized During the investigation, officers seized approximately $600,000 in cash, seven kilograms of methylamphetamine and five kilograms of ketamine. Police also reported finding firearms, machetes, swords, daggers, casino equipment, illegal tobacco, vapes and suspected drug-manufacturing materials.

The seizures were made during searches conducted at different stages of the investigation. Police believe the evidence could help establish how the suspected operations were organised and whether different locations were connected.

Authorities have not established that every person arrested was involved in every alleged activity. Charges and allegations vary between individuals, and the matters will be dealt with separately through the criminal justice system. Illegal casinos discovered One suspected illegal casino was uncovered in Carnegie in August. Detectives allege that multiple gambling rooms had been established at the premises, where 15 people were found participating in casino-style games.

Those present were interviewed and released, with police indicating that some could face charges by summons relating to unauthorised gambling and suspected proceeds of crime.

A second suspected casino was discovered at a property in Box Hill during a search in October. Two people allegedly operating the venue were arrested. Police also searched another Box Hill address, where they reported finding cash and handwritten records that they believe documented extensive gambling activity.

Investigators are examining the records and other seized material as part of their efforts to establish the scale of the alleged operations. Earlier arrests in the investigation The broader investigation began earlier in 2026. In July, detectives arrested nine people at a property in Bundoora over alleged links to a suspected criminal syndicate.

Several individuals were charged with offences involving methylamphetamine, prohibited weapons, stolen property, tobacco and suspected proceeds of crime. Some of those charged remain in custody, while police expect other individuals to face charges by summons.

On 15 October, officers also searched a property in South Melbourne and arrested a 40-year-old woman. She was charged with several alleged offences, including trafficking a large commercial quantity of methylamphetamine, possessing cocaine and possessing a prohibited weapon.

Police response and next steps Detective Inspector Carlie Kohler of Victoria Police’s clandestine laboratory squad said the arrests were intended to disrupt suspected criminal networks and prevent drugs and weapons from reaching the community.

Investigators are continuing to examine the evidence gathered during the searches and determine whether further charges are warranted. Police have also indicated that some people are expected to be charged by summons as enquiries continue.

The operation highlights the complexity of investigations involving suspected drug manufacturing, illegal gambling and financial transactions. Its final outcome will depend on the evidence gathered, the charges ultimately brought and the decisions of the courts.

All accused people are entitled to the presumption of innocence unless and until their guilt is established in court.