A man and a woman have been arrested and charged in connection with what police allege was an Adelaide-based organised drug trafficking syndicate.
The individuals were identified through Operation Post, a collaborative investigation conducted by SA Police, the Australian Federal Police and the Australian Border Force (ABF), which targets drug trafficking through the mail.
ABF officers in Melbourne identified an overseas consignment containing an estimated 1kg of the drug Pentylone, often marketed as Ecstasy (MDMA), destined for South Australia.
SA Police from the Serious and Organised Crime Branch yesterday (25 September) searched an Everard Park property, seized the drug, which equates to approximately 10,000 street doses.
A 22-year-old man, of no fixed place of abode was arrested, refused police bail, and is expected to appear in the Adelaide Magistrates Court today.
A 21-year-old woman from Everard Park was also arrested, granted police bail, and will appear in the Adelaide Magistrates Court on 17 November.
Both have been charged with trafficking in a large commercial quantity of a controlled drug.
Detective Chief Inspector Tony Crameri, from the Drug and Organised Crime Branch, said the trafficking of drugs such as Pentylone was a serious criminal offence.
“I would remind the community that the taking of these substances can be extremely dangerous for your health, with users potentially suffering serious side effects.
“Police ask that if anyone has information relating to the of illicit drugs that they contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 – you can remain anonymous.”
ABF Acting Regional Commander, Matthew O’Connor said the detection by ABF officers in Melbourne and subsequent arrests in Adelaide was evidence of close co-operation between agencies.
“We continue to work closely with our partners to detect, deter and disrupt criminal activity at our border and within Australia,” Regional Commander O’Connor said.
“This is 10,000 hits that won’t be making it to the streets of Adelaide and another criminal enterprise shut down.”