Victoria Police have charged a CFMEU delegate and another man after raids linked to an investigation into alleged drug dealing at construction sites across Melbourne.
Detectives from Taskforce Hawk arrested a 35-year-old Mulgrave man, described by police as a union delegate, alongside a 32-year-old Fitzroy man and an 18-year-old Fitzroy woman on Thursday. The operation included searches at properties in Mulgrave, Heathmont and Fitzroy.
Police allege drugs were sold at work sites
Investigators allege the three were involved in importing drugs and anabolic steroids through the mail before selling them at construction sites around Melbourne. The claims have not been tested in court.
The 35-year-old man has been charged with trafficking anabolic steroids, possessing prescription drugs, possessing a drug of dependence, possessing a prohibited weapon and possessing a controlled weapon.
The 32-year-old man faces charges that include trafficking anabolic steroids, drug possession, dealing with the proceeds of crime and possessing a prohibited weapon. Both men were granted bail and are expected to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court in January.
The 18-year-old woman was released and is due to face court by summons. Police had not announced charges against her in the information available on Friday morning.
Cash, drugs and weapons seized in raids
Police said officers seized a large quantity of steroids and peptides during the searches, along with drug paraphernalia and a substantial amount of cash. Detectives also located quantities of cocaine, MDMA and cannabis, according to the police account of the operation.
Electronic devices were taken for further examination. A taser, two extendable batons and OC spray were also among the items allegedly found at the properties.
The seizures form part of the evidence investigators will assess as the case moves towards court. No finding has been made against any of the accused, and they are entitled to the presumption of innocence.
Taskforce Hawk widens construction-sector inquiries
Taskforce Hawk was established by Victoria Police in June 2024 to investigate alleged criminal activity and corruption within the construction industry. Its remit has included suspected drug trafficking, fraud and the possible influence of organised crime groups on major projects.
The latest arrests follow a broader series of inquiries into the sector. In August, detectives searched the Victorian headquarters of the CFMEU and other properties during a separate operation examining alleged secret commissions, fraud and drug trafficking. Five men were arrested in that action, with two charged at the time.
Thursday’s case centres on the separate allegation that drugs and steroids were imported and distributed through building sites. Police have not publicly identified the construction projects or workplaces where the alleged sales occurred.
Case now heads to the Magistrates’ Court
The January hearing will mark an early stage of proceedings for the two charged men. At a first appearance, the court can deal with administrative matters, bail arrangements and the timetable for the prosecution to provide its evidence.
Further details may emerge as investigators examine the seized electronic devices and other material. For now, the charges remain allegations, and the prosecution will be required to prove each offence to the criminal standard if the matters ultimately proceed to trial.
The CFMEU had not been accused as an organisation in the announced charges. The investigation concerns alleged conduct by individuals, including one man identified by police as a delegate.
