Police have dismantled an alleged drug trafficking network following an investigation into the importation and distribution of a commercial quantity of ketamine in Victoria's southwest.
Detectives from Warrnambool Crime Investigation Unit, with support from Icarus Taskforce, commenced an investigation earlier this year after Australia Border Force detected approximately six kilograms of illicit drugs, with an estimated street value of $1.2 million.
Their inquiries led investigators to three men, who police will allege were responsible for importing a commercial quantity of ketamine.
A 44-year-old Glenormiston South man was arrested on Wednesday, 5 March, at a delivery centre in Terang. Police allege he was attempting to collect three kilograms of ketamine when he was taken into custody.
This arrest set off a series of coordinated police actions across the region. Later that day, detectives executed a search warrant at a Glenormiston South property, where they arrested a 35-year-old man. Investigators allege both men were involved in the importation of ketamine, and they have been charged with importing a commercial quantity of a border-controlled drug, a Commonwealth offence carrying a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
Yesterday, officers executed a search warrant at a property in Eliminyt, where a 22-year-old man was arrested following a search of his property. He was also charged with importing a commercial quantity of a border-controlled drug, as well as failing to comply with a court order. He also faces a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
Also arrested was a 55-year-old man after police executed a search warrant at his property in Kirkstall. Police located and seized approximately 120 grams of methylamphetamine. He was charged with trafficking a commercial quantity of a drug of dependence, an offence that carries a maximum penalty of 25 years in prison.
The three men facing Commonwealth charges appeared at Warrnambool Magistrates' Court yesterday. The Kirkstall man also appeared at Warrnambool Magistrates' Court yesterday. All four men were remanded and will reappear at Warrnambool Magistrates Court on 4 July.
Icarus Taskforce is dedicated to targeting and disrupting the importation and distribution of illicit drugs via the domestic mail system.
Anyone with information about drug importations or trafficking is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
Quotes attributable to Detective Inspector David Reither - Investigation & Response Manager | Western Region Division 2:
"This was a well-organized alleged trafficking operation designed to bring large amounts of ketamine into Victoria and distribute it across the region. Our investigation has effectively shut down a key part of that supply chain.
"These arrests should serve as a warning-if you attempt to import or traffic illicit drugs, you will face serious consequences, including the possibility of life in prison.
"Victoria Police is committed to identify and dismantle these networks, stopping drugs before they reach our communities.
Quotes attributable to Detective Senior Sergeant Jason Schubert, Icarus Taskforce:
"Through large-scale drug seizures - like the one highlighted today - we prevent the profits from these drugs being invested back into the criminal activities of those involved.
"Importing these types of insidious drugs on an industrial scale ruins lives, while destroying communities and families. Every single deal has the potential to cause death or serious harm, not to mention the devastating impacts on families affected by illicit drug use and the significant healthcare system costs.
"We are simply not prepared to allow this to happen and will continue to target those criminals who promote their misery through the illicit drug market."
