International traveller arrested after cops smash meth lab
Written by admin on October 29, 2024
An American-Mexican national has been arrested after police swooped in on a clandestine drug lab in Sydney’s west following a tip-off from Australian Border Force.
ABF officers referred concerns to NSW Police on October 16 about a non-legitimate traveller they said was likely in Australia to “engage in criminal activity”.
Following an investigation, police raided a property in Liverpool on Monday and arrested the 23-year-old man.
Police allege 1.1kg of meth, 860g of liquid meth and 4.4kg of cutting agent Dimethyl sulfone were located and seized by officers from the home.
The man has since been charged with manufacturing and supplying a commercial quantity of a prohibited drug and was refused bail to front Liverpool court on Tuesday.
The arrest comes after the establishment of Strike Force Mactier, a joint operation by the State Crime Command’s organised crime squad and the Australian Border Force.
Police allege items consistent with drug manufacturing were also found at the Liverpool home, including tins of acetone and a plate of a white crystal substance.
A 5-litre drink cooler containing brown viscous liquid with large crystal shards and large electronic scales was also allegedly located by police during their raid.
Detective Superintendent Peter Faux said the arrest was a “testament to the robust capabilities and dedication” of police.
“Working closely with Australian Border Force we will continue to identify and act upon anyone who treats Australia as a safe haven,” he said.
“It should be a warning to other would-be criminals that our shores are not a place to come to commit criminal activity.”
ABF Superintendent Geoff Quinn said through partnerships with state agencies they had “been able to halt a syndicate treating Australia as a drug manufacturing base”.
“The items seized during this investigation have all the hallmarks for domestic methamphetamine production and distribution,” he said.
“And, this is why is it so crucial to use intelligence and targeting to stop any illicit activity both pre and post border.”
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