A joint-agency investigation has commenced after methylamphetamine worth more than $400 million was intercepted by law enforcement at the border.
On Saturday 30 March 2019, Australian Border Force (ABF) officers at the Sydney Container Examination Facility examined a container from Singapore.
It was declared to contain electronic ovens but was found to contain 11 commercial refrigerators. X-rays revealed inconsistencies within their construction.
The refrigerators were unpacked and seven were found to contain a total of 561 packages of white crystalline substance, with presumptive testing returning a positive indicator for methylamphetamine, otherwise known as 'ice'.
Forensic analysis determined the packages contained a total of 585kg of ice, which has an estimated potential street value of $438 million.
The drugs have since been seized and a joint investigation established by the Australian Federal Police, NSW Police Force's Organised Crime Squad, and the Australian Border Force.
On Friday 5 April 2019, two search warrants were executed at a commercial premises at Wetherill Park and a home at Edensor Park.
During the searches, officers seized documents relevant to the investigation and electronic storage devices.
Joint investigations under Strike Force Collarene continue.
Anyone with information in relation to organised criminal activity is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence.
