Tara Murray
Three men have been charged by the Australian Federal Police over the alleged importation of more than 100 kilograms of drugs into Australia.
An AFP-led investigation in partnership with the Australian Border Force (ABF) and the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC) began on January 4 when ABF officers allegedly detected 40 kilograms of methamphetamine concealed in crane counterweights shipped from Mexico.
Over the next month the origins and links between multiple consignments seized by the ABF were reviewed and allegedly found to contain border controlled substances, including eight kilograms of isopropylbenzylamine (a methamphetamine analogue) and quantities of heroin, cocaine and other drugs.
Police said the total weight of drugs seized is estimated to be in excess of 100 kilograms.
On February 11 the AFP executed search warrants at a property in Keilor Park and an apartment in Southbank.
Investigators seized multiple alleged deconstructed drug packages, various packets of methamphetamine weighing over one kilogram in total, about $50,000 in cash and numerous mobile phones.
The three men, aged 22, 32 and 38, were arrested and remanded in custody.
They have been charged with importation of commercial quantities of border controlled drugs, possessing commercial quantities of unlawfully imported border controlled drugs and dealing in proceeds of crime worth $10,000 or more.
AFP investigations southern command Commander, Todd Hunter said the operation highlighted the AFP’s commitment to protecting the Australian community from the scourge of drug-inflicted harm.
“We will continue to work tirelessly alongside our partners, as has been demonstrated in this case, to stay one step ahead of organised criminals. It is more important than ever that we seek out and prosecute those who heap the burden of crime on the public.”
