A man has been charged with serious drug offences after a recent multi-agency operation located cocaine to the street value of $2 million.
In December 2022, officers from the Australian Border Force (ABF) and detectives from the Serious & Organised Crime Branch (SOCB) intercepted a package containing 5 kg of cocaine when it arrived in Adelaide.
On 16 December 2022, a 28-year-old non-citizen was arrested by SOCB detectives and charged with allegedly attempting to traffic in a large commercial quantity of controlled drugs. He was refused bail and appeared in the Adelaide Magistrates Court on Monday 19 December. He was remanded in custody and is next due to appear in the Adelaide Magistrates Court on 30 March 2023. Investigations remain ongoing.
Detective Superintendent Billy Thompson from SOCB said; "This arrest and seizure is an example of SAPOL working together with ABF to apprehend people who attempt to introduce large amounts of illicit drugs into South Australia."
"This seizure stopped a large amount of street deals of an extremely dangerous drug, which had the potential to cause significant community harm."
ABF Superintendent SA Operations, Tom Williams, said ABF officers were committed to detecting and deterring illegal import attempts at the border, to protect the Australian community from the scourge of illegal drugs.
"Despite the method of concealment criminals try to use, ABF officers and our valued law enforcement partners continue to remain one step ahead of these attempts," Superintendent Williams said.
This investigation is ongoing and anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au – you can remain anonymous.
CO2200040934
