The Northern Territory Police Force has arrested three men and seized 21kgs of cannabis, as well as a substantial amount of illicit tobacco and alcohol, near Kulgera yesterday afternoon.
Around 4:45pm, police members from Kulgera intercepted a rental Toyota station wagon travelling north of Kulgera along the Stuart Highway for the purpose of a random alcohol and drug test.
The 39-year-old driver tested positive for cannabis and a subsequent search of the vehicle and its occupants resulted in the following being seized:
- 21kgs of cannabis
- 4280 cigarettes - illicit tobacco
- 20 litres of alcohol
The driver and two passengers of the vehicle, aged 42 and 59, were arrested, with the Southern Drug Investigation Unit taking carriage of the investigation.
The three men have since been charged with:
- Possess schedule 2 dangerous drug - commercial quantity
- Supply schedule 2 dangerous drug - commercial quantity
- Customs Act 1901 Section 233BABAD Tobacco offences
The 39-year-old driver was also charged with Drive with prohibited drug.
They have been remanded in custody and are due to appear in court tomorrow.
Detective Acting Sergeant Adrian George said, "This was excellent proactive policing by our members from Kulgera.
"The financial and social impacts caused by the distribution of cannabis and alcohol into remote regions is well known, and it's a disgrace that these offenders attempted to take advantage of the Territory's vulnerable communities.
"Anyone with information on the supply of drugs or alcohol into remote communities can call police on 131 444."
You can also make an anonymous report to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.
