Further two men charged as part of investigation into drug import after 130kg of ‘ice’ located in machinery, NSW

Detectives have charged a further two men as part of ongoing investigations into the alleged importation of methylamphetamine worth nearly $100 million, which had been concealed in a one-tonne machinery item.

Early last year, the State Crime Command’s Organised Crime Squad and the NSW Crime Commission established Strike Force Redgurnard to investigate the importation and supply of illicit drugs into NSW.

Acting on information from the NSW Police Force, Australian Border Force (ABF) officers targeted an air cargo consignment which had arrived at a Sydney freight depot from Central America in December 2019.

The consignment, which was declared to contain a large machinery item, was examined by ABF officers who noted inconsistencies.

During a subsequent deconstruction, it was found to contain 130kg of a white crystalline substance concealed within the item.

The substance was tested and returned a presumptive positive result for methylamphetamine, which has an estimated potential street value of $97.5 million.

Strike Force Redgurnard investigators, with assistance from the Australian Federal Police and ABF, seized the consignment and conducted a controlled delivery.

A 26-year-old man was charged last month and remains before the courts.

Following further inquiries, strike force detectives executed two search warrants at homes in Sylvania and Rose Bay, early yesterday (Thursday 20 February 2020).

During the searches, detectives seized documents, clothing and electronic devices.

Two men – aged 36 and 46 – were arrested during the operation.

The 46-year-old Rose Bay man has been charged with take part large commercial prohibited drug supply, and participate criminal group contribute criminal activity.

Police will allege in court that the man facilitated the delivery of the consignment to a business in Alexandria.

He was refused bail to appear at Waverley Local Court today (Friday 21 February 2020).

The 36-year-old Sylvania man was charged with participate criminal group contribute criminal activity.

He was granted bail and is due to appear at Sutherland Local Court on Thursday 12 March 2020.

Investigations under Strike Force Redgurnard are continuing.

Anyone with information that may assist Strike Force Redgurnard investigators is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence.

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