New Beith man charged after Australian Border Force raid uncover drug precursors, production equipment
A South East Queensland man has been charged after a raid allegedly uncovered drug production equipment at his home, including a detailed sketch of a meth lab.
Police & Courts
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A Queensland man could face up to five years in jail following allegations he attempted the import of drug precursors and the discovery of drug production equipment at his home.
The man, from New Beith, south west of Brisbane, first came to the attention of the Australian Border Force (ABF) in April when officers in Sydney intercepted 12 international mail packages with drug precursor chemicals.
The goods were declared as masks, beauty products and plastic buttons.
With support from the Queensland police, ABF investigators executed warrants on the New Beith address on May 30 to obtain evidence including a detailed meth lab sketch with a device also seized.
The man may be charged against s23BAA (4) of the Customs Act 1901 for importation of tier one goods and s233(1)(b) for importing prohibited import.
If convicted, he could face up to five years in jail and fines of up to $275,000.
A large amount of laboratory equipment, chemicals and cannabis were also located at the property, at which point a crime scene was declared and QPS continued investigations.
ABF Commander James Copeman said the drug cooking plans came off the boil thanks to the initial detection work of ABF officers at the border.
“The genesis of this excellent result for the community lies with the detection at the border of suspect packages by our eagle-eyed ABF officers,” Commander Copeman said.
“This great work was then continued by our investigations team here in Brisbane.
“Our close relationship with Queensland Police means we were able to work together to prevent further harm and ensure this scheme was shut down swiftly before it could inflict harm on the community.
“Protecting the Australian community from the scourge of illegal drugs is something the ABF takes enormous pride in.
“We will continue to work resolutely to combat these illegal attempts – and those engaging in such activities can expect to face the full legal consequences for their actions.”
Queensland Police Service Detective Senior Sergeant Brendan Blyth said the successful joint operation between the two agencies sent a clear message to those involved in the drug trade.
“We were able to achieve a quick and favourable result that not only continues to make our community safer, but also showcased our continued commitment to bring those offenders to justice.”
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