A joint operation spanning two states has resulted in two men being charged after 50 litres of liquid containing pseudoephedrine was seized.
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) began this operation back in June of 2013 after receiving intelligence from the Australian Crime Commission (ACC) on the possible importation of precursor chemicals through a chemical supply business. It will be alleged that the business was formed solely to disguise the importation of the restricted matter.
This year, in August 2014, Australian Customs and Border Protection Services (ACBPS) selected a shipment for inspection that was imported by the chemical supply business.The inspection revealed 10 five litre drums containing pseudoephedrine suspended in liquid form. Given the purity of the liquid, the precursor material could have been used to manufacture methylamphetamine worth almost $10 million.
Investigations continued, with search warrants being carried out in Adelaide and Sydney.
A 58-year-old Mitcham (South Australia) man was arrested in Adelaide on 20 October 2014 and charged with importing a commercial quantity of a border controlled precursor (pseudoephedrine) contrary to Section 307.11 of the Criminal Code Act 1995.
A 42-year-old Cronulla (New South Wales) man was arrested in Sydney on 21 October 2014 and charged with importing a commercial quantity of a border controlled precursor (pseudoephedrine) contrary to Section 307.11 of the Criminal Code Act 1995 and possessing an anabolic or androgenic steroidal agent contrary to section 16(1) of the Poisons and Therapeutic Goods Act 1966.
“These arrests and the seizure of 50 litres of pseudoephedrine are a direct result of the four agencies working closely, sharing information and resources to end up with the outcome we see today.
“Those that seek to import precursor chemicals which produce hideous drugs such as methamphetamine will continue to face the combined efforts of Australian law enforcement partners,” said AFP Manager Adelaide Office, Commander Matt Varley.
Source: AFP and Australian Customs
