Detectives have seized a large commercial quantity of 1,4-Butanediol, which was allegedly being prepared for posting to locations across Australia.
Icarus Taskforce, responsible for targeting and disrupting the importation and supply of illicit drugs - primarily via the mail system, commenced an investigation in late 2025 following the detection of two mail articles in Queensland.
The bottles contained liquid, which testing confirmed was 1,4-Butanediol, believed to be posted from Victoria.
It was identified that more than 500 mail items allegedly containing 1,4-Butanediol had been sent through the mail to addresses across the country.
On Thursday 15 January, police searched properties in Carlton and Melbourne locating postage supplies and more than 350 litres of liquid believed to be 1,4-Butanediol.
A 29-year-old man was arrested and charged with trafficking a large commercial quantity of drugs.
He was remanded to appear before Melbourne Magistrates' Court on 9 April, 2026.
Icarus Taskforce seized more than 860 litres of what is alleged to be 1,4-Butanediol during this investigation.
Trafficking a large commercial quantity of drugs could result in a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
Anyone with information about illicit drug importation is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
