Community tip-offs lead to 27kg drug seizure at Sydney warehouse
AFP investigators have seized 27kg of illicit drugs at a warehouse in Sydney’s eastern suburbs on Monday as a result of assistance from the public.
The AFP received numerous community reports regarding suspicious activity occurring at an industrial warehouse in Banksmeadow.
Follow-up enquiries resulted in a search warrant being executed at the warehouse on 7 August, 2023, with AFP officers seizing 26kg of ketamine and 1kg of methamphetamine.
Officers found the methamphetamine in the main storage area of the warehouse, and discovered trace material for methamphetamine in empty water bottles.
The ketamine was buried behind the warehouse and in the ceiling.
Enquiries revealed the warehouse had been used as a receiving location for consignments of water bottles.
Items consistent with extracting drugs from concealments were also seized, and personal items stored within the warehouse will require further forensic testing.
AFP Detective Superintendent Kristie Cressy said the seizure occurred because of the diligence and alertness of members of the public.
“We need to thank the residents of the community who reported seeing some suspicious activity around this warehouse,” Det-Supt Cressy said.
“AFP investigators will continue with enquiries to track the origin of these drugs and those responsible for importing and handling them. We urge anyone who has information about the warehouse or drugs to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via crimestoppers.com.au.”
Note to media:
Media are encouraged to include help-seeking information in stories about illicit drugs to minimise any negative impact on people in the community. The following services provide people with access to support and information.
- For free and confidential advice about alcohol and other drug treatment services call the National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline on 1800 250 015.
- Access free 24/7 drug and alcohol counselling online at counsellingonline.org.au.
- For information about drug and alcohol addiction treatment or support, go to turningpoint.org.au.
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