Multiple arrests made in crackdown on NT and QLD cannabis supply

NT Police have arrested multiple people in relation to the alleged supply of commercial quantities of cannabis across three states. Read how the arrests were made.

generic cannabis. PIcture: Istock

The Northern Territory Police, Drug and Organised Crime squad have made multiple arrests in an operation targeting a network of drug distributors in the Northern Territory, Queensland and South Australia.

Police said the Northern Territory squad, South Australian Police and Queensland Police collaborated to target a 52-year-old man who was allegedly linked to the monthly supply of cannabis in the Northern Territory and Queensland.

Last Friday, a 64-year-old man and a 32-year-old man were intercepted by the Katherine Criminal Investigation Branch, allegedly in possession of 52kg of cannabis and almost $177,000 of cash at a Katherine motel.

Police said other jurisdictions simultaneously conducted search warrants at residents of alleged offenders linked to the supply of cannabis in the Northern Territory and Queensland.

Police have arrested five people and seized 53kg of cannabis and $307,195 in cash since the commencement of Operation Lea in December 2022.

As a result, the men were charged with supply schedule 2 dangerous drug of commercial quantity and possessing tainted property.

Police said the 52-year-old man targeted in the operation would likely be extradited from South Australia to appear in court at a later date.

Detective Superintendent Lee Morgan said people often underestimated the damage illicit substances caused to the community.

“The Northern Territory Police Force will continue to work with other jurisdictions to protect our community,” he said.

Operation Lea commenced in December 2022 and has led to five arrests and a total of 53kg of cannabis, and $307,195 in cash seized.