POLICE have busted what they've called an organised criminal ring accused of stealing $130,000 worth of property in targeted rural attacks across the New England region.
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It comes at the end of a year-long investigation into reports of rural crime.
Oxley Police District Detective Inspector Jason Darcy said seven men had been arrested and charged with a combined total of almost 100 offences, in a "significant inroad" into the rural crime fight.
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A specialist squad of Tamworth detectives, codenamed Strike Force Girrahween, have recovered about $35,000 worth of allegedly stolen property and seized a firearm, illegal drugs and ammunition during the investigations, Detective Inspector Darcy said.
"It's a huge success in the fight against rural crime in this district," he said.
"It lets the community know that we are out there following up all rural crime offences and take it seriously, and any information is acted upon."
Police allege the men were part of a criminal syndicate operating in the New England region.
Detective Inspector Darcy said there were multiple victims across the area including in Uralla, Walcha, Tamworth, Piallamore and Attunga.
He confirmed the men remain before the court as police compile briefs of evidence in the matters.
Strike Force Girrahween launched in September 2020 and saw the men arrested over a period of time recently.
Detective Inspector Darcy said there had been a total of 96 allegations levelled against the seven co-accused.
The lengthy list of charges include those related to being involved in a criminal group and criminal group activity; knowingly dealing with the proceeds of crime; and supplying prohibited drugs.
Allegations also include aggravated break and enter; stealing motor vehicles; possessing prohibited weapon as well as ammunition; and receiving and disposing of stolen property. Detective Inspector Darcy confirmed rural investigations continue.
Anyone with information about alleged rural crime in the area has been urged to make a report to local police or Crime Stoppers as officers continue to crack down on it.
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