UPDATED RELEASE: Two men charged after more than $3.5 million in drugs seized – Newcastle

Two men have been charged over their role in the alleged importation of methylamphetamine following a vehicle stop at Newcastle yesterday.

Earlier this month, Australian Border Force officers intercepted two parcels from the United States, alleged to contain 1.8kg and 2.2kg of methylamphetamine respectively.

The prohibited drugs have an estimated potential street value of $3.5 million and the seizure was referred to NSW Police, with officers from the Hunter Region Enforcement Squad commencing an investigation.

As part of inquiries, investigators stopped a utility on Apprentice Close, Beresfield, about 11.45am yesterday (Tuesday 15 August 2023).

The driver – a 19-year-old man – and his 20-year-old male passenger were arrested and taken to Maitland Police Station.

They were charged with traffic in commercial quantity of controlled drug, and take part supply prohibited drug – large commercial quantity.

Both were refused bail to appear before Maitland Local Court today (Wednesday 16 August 2023).

Inquiries continue.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

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