US-Mexican national arrested in Liverpool for alleged drug manufacturing and supply
In a major crackdown on organised crime, a dual US-Mexican national has been charged with drug supply and manufacturing after police uncovered a Sydney meth lab valued at about $500,000.
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In a major crackdown on organised crime, a dual US-Mexican national has been charged with drug supply and manufacturing after police uncovered a meth lab valued at about $500,000 in Sydney’s southwest.
The operation, Strike Force Mactier, was launched by the State Crime Command’s Organised Crime Squad in collaboration with the ABF to investigate the importation and distribution of illegal drugs.
On October 16, ABF officers flagged a non-legitimate traveller suspected of engaging in criminal activities, prompting further inquiries.
On Monday just before 5pm, detectives and riot squad officers executed a search warrant in Liverpool, leading to the man’s arrest.
The police uncovered a range of items associated with drug manufacturing, including tins of acetone, a 5L drink cooler filled with a brown viscous liquid containing large crystal shards, a plate of white crystal substance and large electronic scales.
To dismantle the clandestine lab, authorities received help from the Drug and Firearms Squad Chemical Operations Unit, Technical and Forensic Support Unit and the NSW Fire and Rescue HAZMAT team.
Their analysis led to the seizure of 1.1kg of methylamphetamine, 860 grams of liquid methylamphetamine, and 4.4kg of the cutting agent Dimethyl sulfone.
Following the arrest, the man was taken to Liverpool Police Station where he was charged with the manufacture and supply of prohibited drugs in commercial quantities.
He has been refused bail and is set to appear in Liverpool Local Court on Tuesday.
Detective Superintendent Peter Faux highlighted the importance of collaboration with the Australian Border Force in combating crime.
“Working closely with Australian Border Force, we will continue to identify and act upon anyone who treats Australia as a safe haven,” he said.
“This arrest is a testament to our robust capabilities and dedication to protecting the community from the scourge of illegal drugs and tackling international drug manufacture and supply.”
ABF Superintendent Geoff Quinn underlined the significance of intelligence sharing in disrupting organised crime.
“Through this strong partnership with our state law enforcement partners, we have been able to halt a syndicate treating Australia as a drug manufacturing base,” he said.
“The items seized during this investigation have all the hallmarks for domestic methamphetamine production and distribution, making it crucial to utilise intelligence and targeting to stop any illicit activity both pre and post border.”
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