A joint-agency police investigation has resulted in the seizure of approximately 125kg of pseudoephedrine worth an estimated $5 million.
Last month, officers from the State Crime Command’s Drug and Firearms Squad and Australian Border Force (ABF) commenced an investigation after ABF officers intercepted a suspicious consignment in Sydney.
When the consignment was examined it was allegedly found to contain pseudoephedrine concealed within 110 hessian sacks labelled as desiccated coconut.
Following extensive inquiries, two men – aged 28 and 31 – were arrested at a storage facility in Auburn about 8.50pm yesterday (Thursday 2 December 2021).
During a subsequent search of a storage unit, officers seized tools, electronic scales, documentation and clothing.
Both men were taken to Auburn Police Station where they were charged with import commercial quantity border controlled precursor.
The men were refused bail and appeared today (Friday 3 December 2021) at Burwood Local Court, where they were again refused bail to appear at the same court on Monday 6 December 2021.
Drug and Firearms Squad Commander, Detective Superintendent John Watson, said the consignment of pseudoephedrine could have caused enormous damage to the community.
“Pseudoephedrine is a prohibited drug commonly used to manufacture methamphetamine, and the amount seized yesterday could have created about 80-100kg of the drug ice,” Det Supt Watson said.
“Such a massive amount would have caused a lot of damage in our community had it been allowed to hit the streets. Our focus is combatting those involved in this activity to reduce the risk of harm.
“This case again highlights the advantages of Australia’s law enforcement agencies working together to keep dangerous substances out of our communities.”
ABF Enforcement Operations East Commander, Justin Bathurst commended officers for their diligent work in intercepting the prohibited substance and the impressive joint-agency investigation.
“Our officers take their role of stopping the illegal importation of dangerous drugs very seriously. These precursor chemicals could have gone on to harm many people in our community,” Commander Bathurst said.
“The Australian Border Force will work with the NSW Police and other law enforcement partners to ensure anyone attempting to import dangerous drugs is apprehended. If you’re caught you may face serious penalties, including lengthy prison sentences.”
Anyone with information that may assist investigators is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.
