A United States of America and Mexican national has been charged by Organised Crime Squad detectives for the alleged supply and manufacture of prohibited drugs in Sydney.
Strike Force Mactier was established by State Crime Command’s Organised Crime Squad and the Australian Border Force (ABF) to investigate the importation, manufacture and supply of prohibited drugs.
On Wednesday 16 October 2024, ABF officers made a referral to the Organised Crime Squad concerning a non-legitimate traveller who was likely in Australia to engage in criminal activity.
Following extensive inquiries under Strike Force Mactier, about 5.10pm yesterday (Monday 28 October 2024), strike force detectives – with assistance from the Public Order & Riot Squad – executed a search warrant in Liverpool where they arrested a 23-year-old man.
During the search, police located a number of items consistent with drug manufacture, including tins of acetone, a 5L drink cooler containing brown viscous liquid with large crystal shards, a plate of a white crystal substance, and large electronic scales.
Assistance was sought from Drug and Firearms Squad Chemical Operations Unit, and Technical and Forensic Support Unit, and NSW Fire & Rescue HAZMAT team to dismantle the clandestine lab.
As a result of the analysis and dismantling, police seized 1.1kg of methylamphetamine, 860 grams of liquid methylamphetamine, and 4.4kg of cutting agent Dimethyl sulfone.
The man was taken to Liverpool Police Station, where he was charged with manufacture prohibited drug >= commercial quantity and supply prohibited drug >= commercial quantity.
He was refused bail to appear in Liverpool Local Court today (Tuesday 29 October 2024).
Commander of the Organise Crime Squad, Detective Superintendent Peter Faux, said arrests like these highlight our joint capabilities working with Australian Border Force.
“Working closely with Australian Border Force we will continue to identify and act upon anyone who treats Australia as a safe haven,” Det Supt Faux said.
“This arrest is a testament to our robust capabilities and dedication to protecting the community from the scourge of illegal drugs and tacking international drug manufacture and supply.
“It should be a warning to other would-be criminals that our shores are not a place to come to commit criminal activity.”
ABF Superintendent Geoff Quinn says intelligence sharing between agencies is crucial to continue to disrupt organised crime both on and offshore.
“Through this strong partnership with our state law enforcement partners, we have been able to halt a syndicate treating Australia as a drug manufacturing base,” Supt Quinn said.
“The items seized during this investigation have all the hallmarks for domestic methamphetamine production and distribution, and this is why is it so crucial to utilise intelligence and targeting to stop any illicit activity both pre and post border.”
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