Three people have been arrested following the discovery of an industrial-sized Methamphetamine clandestine laboratory at a property at Croydon.
As part of an ongoing joint operation by the SA Police and Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission, detectives from the Serious and Organised Crime Branch (SOCB), assisted by STAR Group, conducted a search of the premises at Scotia Street, Croydon yesterday (29 October).
Detective Superintendent Mark Trenwith, the officer in charge of SOCB, said at the address police found one of the largest methamphetamine laboratories ever seen in South Australia and a large amount of precursor chemicals.
It is estimated there are hundreds of kilograms of what is believed to be pseudoephedrine powder at the address. Further forensic testing will be required to determine the exact nature of the illicit substances located at the laboratories.
"The most significant outcome of this joint operation is that hundreds of kilograms of meth will be prevented from hitting the street," he said.
"It's very concerning that this clandestine drug lab was located in an average suburban street.
"Clandestine drug laboratories pose significant risk to the community and contain corrosive, flammable and toxic chemicals that are often associated with fires and explosions.
"This is a timely reminder to the community that people who seek to produce illicit drugs can face penalties up to a $500,000 fine, life imprisonment and can also have assets such as houses and cars seized."
Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission Acting State Manager South Australia, David Richardson said this is a strong example of the close working relationship between the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission and state and territory police partners.
"The ACIC's most recent Wastewater Drug Monitoring Program report estimates that more than one tonne of methamphetamine is consumed in South Australia each year," he said.
"By working together we are seeing significant results in preventing illicit drugs from reaching the community.
"We are committed to sharing intelligence to respond to the threat and harm caused by these illicit activities."
Three people have been arrested and charged with manufacturing a large commercial quantity of a controlled drug, namely methamphetamine, and trafficking a large commercial quantity of a controlled drug.
o A 46-year-old man from Croydon who is due to appear in the Adelaide Magistrate's Court this afternoon. (19/E90818)
o A 24-year-old woman from Croydon who has been granted police bail and is due to appear in the Adelaide Magistrate's Court on 19 December. (19/E90809)
o A 57-year-old man from Killarney Vale, NSW who is due to appear in the Adelaide Magistrate's Court today. (19/E90827)
Other addresses have been searched in relation to this operation and enquiries both within the state and elsewhere with partner agencies will continue. Further arrests in relation to this matter are expected.
The property at Croydon is currently being processed by SOCB detectives, police from the Forensic Response Section police and a chemist from Forensic Science South Australia. It is anticipated that the processing will take several days due to the size and complexity of the lab.
Members of the public who have information about drug trafficking or manufacture are urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333000 or report online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au – you can remain anonymous.
