Police boss explains why NRL star was stopped at airport and questioned
The Rabbitohs star was pulled aside by police after he and teammates flew into the Gold Coast ahead of the side's clash with the Titans at Cbus Super on Sunday.
Chelepy told 4BC radio on Thursday morning that Smith was questioned 'about a number of things' when stopped by police at Coolangatta Airport.
The police boss' public appearance comes after Code Sports first reported police were following a line of inquiry as part of an investigation into the supply of drugs when a decision was made to speak with Smith.
There is no suggestion of any wrongdoing by Smith.
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Rather, according to the report, Smith was questioned about an individual known to him who is part of the ongoing investigation.
Chelepy said Smith has been cleared of any involvement in illegal affairs.
'It's out in the media now that we have spoken to Brandon,' Chelepy said during the radio interview.
'We spoke to Brandon at Coolangatta, when he arrived.
'We chatted to him about a number of things and then he was able to go on and play football.
'We have an ongoing police matter that we are dealing with.
'Brandon was very co-operative with us and he was able to go on and play a good game of football from what I saw.'
Prior to Chelepy's interview, Queensland Police had not issued any public update to the incident since a statement was released on Sunday.
'Queensland Police had cause to speak to a 29-year-old male at Coolangatta Airport,' a statement read.
'The male was later released without charge. Police have no further information to provide.'
The former Melbourne Storm premiership-winner was reportedly heading to the baggage claim area at the airport when he was stopped by police.
Code Sports reports he was questioned before he was sent on his way to join teammates at the Sofitel Hotel at Broadbeach before their game against the Titans on Sunday.
The Rabbitohs made the NRL Integrity Unit aware of the incident on Saturday.
'The NRL has no information relating to a potential breach of the NRL Rules by the player,' an NRL spokesman told Code Sports.
Smith played the game against the Titans on Sunday and made an impact for the team starting from the bench in the Bunnies' 20-18 win.
He has also been selected to play for the Rabbitohs against Parramatta on Saturday.
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