Nightclubs, DJ, Implicated In Gold Coast Drug Raids

A number of nightclubs and a DJ have been implicated in what is being called the biggest police drug operation in the Gold Coast's history.

Gold Coast police raided nightclubs on Friday night and residential properties across the weekend as 152 offenders were arrested with over 400 charges levelled. A police report indicates that the raids – the end result of an 18 month investigation – stopped $26 million worth of cocaine, ecstasy, steroids and more hitting the street.

The police report alleges that 37 of the persons charged are members of “criminal” bikie gangs.

According to the Gold Coast Bulletin, nightclub owners Ivan Tesic and Jamie Pickering were among those arrested, with Tesic allegedly named as a ringleader of the drug syndicate. Tesic is a part owner in Club Liv, while Pickering owns SinCity and Vanity.

Club manager and DJ Joseph 'JoeyMojo' Sandagon was arrested at Shuffle Nightclub and charged with drug trafficking. He, along with three co-accused, were released on bail. One was already on bail for drug offences linked to a music festival in January.

Detective Superintendent David Hutchinson said, “I congratulate the core group of detectives from the Gold Coast and partner agencies who have driven this covert investigation over the last 19 months.

“In addition to seeking substantial prison terms, this investigation will hit these criminal syndicates where it hurts them most. Police have seized large amounts of cash and will be restraining numerous high value residential properties and vehicles, which we will allege have been obtained from the proceeds of their criminal activities.”