Joint Agency Cocaine Seizure

Minister for Justice and Customs, Senator Amanda Vanstone, today congratulated Australian Federal Police [AFP] agents and Australian Customs Service officers on the successful conclusion of a joint-agency operation with the Victorian Police Drug Squad which resulted in the arrest of several people and the seizure of approximately 6 kilograms of cocaine.

"The success of this operation is further indication of the benefit of agencies working together in a cohesive manner to combat the trafficking of illicit drugs," Senator Vanstone said.

"The expertise of all agencies involved in this particular operation ensured that the best possible skills were utilised to beat the criminal element."

Senator Vanstone endorsed the exchange program currently being implemented between the AFP and Victoria Police and said the passing of information, intelligence and crime detecting methods between agencies could only enhance the capacity for fighting crime.

One man and two women have been charged with being knowingly concerned in a prohibited import whilst a second man has been charged with trafficking cocaine.

"Every successful seizure of drugs ensures they do not reach our streets," Senator Vanstone said.

"It sends a clear message to others contemplating importations that Australia’s co-operative law enforcement effort means that chances of criminals succeeding are greatly diminished."

Minister available through Kevin Donnellan 0419 400 078