NSW police charge woman after $5.62 million worth of ‘ice’ and MDMA seized at Rhodes

Criminal Groups Squad detectives have charged a second person after a clandestine laboratory was uncovered at Rhodes last week, where $5.62 million worth of ‘ice’ and MDMA was seized.

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 two search warrants at a unit at Rhodes and a vault on Castlereagh Street in Sydney’s CBD from 8am last 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 was subsequently dismantled.

During the search, investigators seized 40kg of methylamphetamine (ice) and 400g of MDMA, with a combined estimated potential street value of more than $5.62 million.

Police also seized $750,000 cash, 65kg of silver bullion, 900g of gold and 23 boxes of ammunition.

A 47-year-old man was arrested during the operation at the Rhodes home. He was charged and remains before the courts.

Following further inquiries, a 37-year-old Rhodes woman was arrested at Burwood Police Station about 8.15am on Tuesday (29 September 2020).

She was charged with knowingly deal with proceeds of crime, owner/occupier knowingly allow use as drug premises, found on/entering/leaving drug premises and conceal serious indictable offence.

The woman appeared at Burwood Local Court the same day, where she was granted strict conditional bail to reappear at the same court on Wednesday 25 November 2020.

Investigations under Strike Force Smede are continuing.

Anyone with information about the 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.