Criminal Groups Squad detectives have charged a man after a large-scale clandestine laboratory was uncovered at a unit complex in Sydney’s Inner West.
Earlier this year, detectives from the State Crime Command’s Criminal Groups Squad established Strike Force Smede to investigate the manufacture and supply of prohibited drugs across Sydney.
Following extensive investigations, officers executed a search warrant at a unit at Rhodes from 8am today (Friday 25 September 2020).
Upon entry, detectives uncovered a large-scale clandestine laboratory in the garage of the unit, including equipment and chemicals consistent with the supply and manufacture of prohibited drugs.
Specialist officers from the Drug and Firearms Squad’s Chemical Operations Unit attended and examined the property, which is currently in the process of being dismantled.
During the search, about 10 kilograms of liquid, powder and crystal – believed to be various form of methylamphetamine ‘ice’ – was located.
Police also seized $400,000 cash, silver and gold bullion and ammunition.
Later today, Strike Force Smede investigators executed a second search warrant at a vault at Castlereagh Street, Sydney.
During the search, officers located and seized about $230,000 in silver and gold bullion and a large amount of cash.
A 47-year-old man was arrested at the Rhodes home and taken to Burwood Police Station.
He was charged with manufacture prohibited drug more than a large commercial quantity, supply prohibited drug more than a large commercial quantity, organise/conducts/assists drug premises, and knowingly deal with the proceeds of crime.
Police will allege in court that the man was involved in the large-scale manufacture and supply of prohibited drugs across Sydney.
The man was refused bail to appear at Parramatta Bail Court tomorrow (Saturday 26 September 2020).
Investigations are continuing.
Anyone with information about this manufacture and supply of prohibited drugs is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence.
