Public assistance call-out: Have you seen this wooden cabinet?
This is a joint release between the Australian Federal Police, Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission, New South Wales Police Force, and Australian Border Force.
Editor's note: Images are available via Hightail
A multi-agency operation, codenamed Taskforce Phobetor, is appealing for public information after 60kg of methamphetamine was seized from a wooden cabinet sent via sea cargo from Canada.
Investigations began after Australian Border Force (ABF) officers detected the illicit substance in a wooden cabinet that arrived in Sydney on 9 May, 2023.
About 60kg of the substance was removed from the white cabinet and tested, returning a presumptive positive for methamphetamine.
The drugs were allegedly concealed in silver packages and hidden behind a false backing in the cabinet.
The estimated street value of the methamphetamine is $54 million.*
The consignment was addressed to a Chinese national and destined for a premises in Western Sydney.
Taskforce Phobetor Commander, Detective Superintendent Stuart Cadden, said that investigators are following every lead to determine how the illicit drugs were imported into Australia, and identify those responsible.
“We are certain there are people in Australia who know something about this importation, either as the receiver or future distributer.
“By now, these people might be concerned that their drugs have not arrived.”
“We are urging anyone who can identify the cabinet or who may have knowledge to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via crimestoppers.com.au.
“You can provide information anonymously.”
Taskforce Phobetor, which was established in 2021, is a joint operation between the AFP, Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission and New South Wales Police Force, which targets and disrupts serious organised crime in NSW.
*Source: ACIC Illicit Drug Calculator 2019-2020.
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.
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For free and confidential advice about alcohol and other drug treatment services call the National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline on 1800 250 015.
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Access free 24/7 drug and alcohol counselling online at www.counsellingonline.org.au.
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For information about drug and alcohol addiction treatment or support, go to www.turningpoint.org.au.
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