Organised crime

Major joint-agency operation targets cross-border organised crime

Kate — Mon, 01 Aug 2022 00:23:28 +0000

Major joint-agency operation targets cross-border organised crime Kate Mon, 2022-08-01 10:23

30 July 2022

NSW Police Force, Queensland Police Service, Australian Federal Police, Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission, NSW Crime Commission

PLEASE NOTE: Vision and images of police activity conducted as part of Operation Viking is available: https://spaces.hightail.com/receive/w6L95WkydD

https://d2haxmvzil2swt.cloudfront.net/uploads/2022/07/28/003049_op-viking.mp4

https://spaces.hightail.com/space/gX3pMAVJAN

Police have dismantled a clandestine laboratory and seized prohibited drugs, cash, luxury cars and jewellery, following the conclusion of a joint-agency police operation conducted across Northern NSW and south-east Queensland targeting organised criminal networks (OCNs).

Operation Viking was established by the NSW Police Force, in partnership with the NSW Crime Commission (NSWCC), Queensland Police Service (QPS), Australian Federal Police (AFP), and Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC), to gather intelligence and further disrupt OCN activities across the Northern Rivers and Gold Coast border region.

During the multi-agency operation – which commenced at 6am last Monday (18 July 2022) and concluded at 5pm yesterday (Friday 29 July 2022) – police seized seven firearms, more than $150,000 cash, and a variety of prohibited drugs including methylamphetamine, cocaine and cannabis, with an estimated street value of more than $4.5 million.

Of note:

About 9pm on Monday (18 July 2022), investigators attended a property at Seelands, near Grafton. Upon arrival, police located significant quantities of precursor chemicals and equipment consistent with the manufacture of prohibited drugs, as well as around 1kg of cannabis. A crime scene was declared, before the site was handed over to specialist police from the Drug and Firearms Squad’s Chemical Operations Unit, who assisted in the dismantling of the lab and subsequent seizure of the chemicals. Inquiries continue.

About 7.45am on Tuesday (19 July 2022), police attached to Operation Viking attended a home on Parkway Drive at Ewingsdale and served a 44-year-old man with a Firearm Prohibition Order (FPO) notice. Following further inquiries, a crime scene was declared, and police subsequently seized $10,000 cash, numerous luxury watches, and electronic devices for forensic examination. Investigations continue.

About 3.40pm on Wednesday (20 July 2022), police attended a house on Marana Street at Bilambil Heights as the home’s occupant – a 36-year-old man who is a member of the Mongols OMCG – is subject to a Firearm Prohibition Order (FPO). During a subsequent search of the premises, police located a bar area at the rear of the home which contained a large selection of Mongols OMCG paraphernalia, quantities of alcohol with a price list, as well as an amount of cannabis. All items were seized, and the room was dismantled. Inquiries continue.

About 9am on Tuesday (26 July 2022), officers attached to Operation Viking attended a home on Philip Parade at Tweed Heads South and executed a Firearm Prohibition Order (FPO) search, locating and seizing a loaded rifle and ammunition in the home’s kitchen. A 27-year-old man was arrested and taken to Tweed Heads Police Station, where he was charged with possess unauthorised firearm, possess ammunition without holding licence, and not keep firearm safely. He was refused bail and appeared at Tweed Heads Local Court the following day, where he was formally refused bail to reappear at the same court on Friday 9 September 2022.

On Tuesday (26 July 2022), police attached to Operation Viking executed a search warrant at a residence in Carrara and located two hydroponic cannabis grow labs, in addition to 2.5kg of dried and packaged cannabis. A 55-year-old man was charged with Producing Dangerous Drugs, Possessing Dangerous Drugs (exceed schedule) and Possess things used in connection with Part 2 drug offence. He is due to appear in the Southport Magistrates Court on Wednesday 24 August 2022.

Just before 10am on Monday (25 July 2022), police executed a Firearm Prohibition Order (FPO) search at a home on Tringa Avenue at Tweed Heads, immediately noticing an amount of cannabis within the property and declaring a crime scene. During a subsequent search, police located and seized more than 130 grams of a white powder suspected to be cocaine, further amounts of cannabis, more than $18,000 cash, and numerous electronic devices. All items were seized for forensic analysis. Following further inquiries, a 53-year-old man attended Tweed Heads Police Station about 9am on Thursday (28 July 2022), and was charged with deal with property proceeds of crime, two counts of possess prohibited drug, and supply prohibited drug more than indictable amount. He was granted conditional bail to appear at Tweed Heads Local Court next month.

State Crime Commander, Acting Assistant Commissioner Jason Weinstein, said police engaged in two weeks of intensive overt and covert operations to gain a better understanding of OCN activity in the region.

“The northern border zone has the state’s largest OMCG population with a significant crossover between NSW and QLD,” Acting Assistant Commissioner Weinstein said.

“Alongside our law enforcement partners, we have now gathered sufficient intelligence on OCNs functioning across this area and will be well-equipped to deal with any organised criminal activity moving forward.

“We know criminal organisations were establishing themselves across the north coast because of its lucrative drug market and a perceived idea the area is relatively free of scrutiny from law enforcement.

“I’m confident that following these two weeks that perception has changed – as we continue to work closely through joint-operations to prevent, disrupt and respond to organised crime,” Acting Assistant Commissioner Weinstein said.

Queensland Police Service Assistant Commissioner Katherine Innes, Crime and Intelligence Command, said the successful culmination of Operation Viking has caused significant disruption to organised criminal syndicates and investigations will continue.

“This multi-agency, multi-jurisdictional operation highlights the importance, and significant resources Qld and NSW are prepared to place on stopping criminal groups, including OMCG’s from causing harm within our community.

“The relationship the QPS has with NSW Police and other law enforcement agencies again demonstrates the importance of partnerships nationally in our common purpose of to combatting organised crime and associated criminal activity.

“This operation should serve as a warning to anyone involved in organised criminal activity, that they will be detected and they will be held accountable, irrespective of a state border,” Assistant Commissioner Innes said.

AFP Assistant Commissioner Northern Command Lesa Gale said the AFP was a key partner in the multi-agency operation due to its ability to operate and gather intelligence across state borders.

“The AFP has a unique capability to gather intelligence and track criminal activity across state and territory borders and works closely with our state and territory partners in law enforcement,” Assistant Commissioner Gale said.

“The Queensland and NSW border is the most heavily populated border region in Australia and the AFP is committed to using our full capabilities to take the fight to outlaw motorcycle gangs and other serious organised crime networks trying to operate here.

“Our message to organised crime is simple; we will not stop in our mission to outsmart you and protect the Australian community.”

ACIC Acting Executive Director Intelligence Operations, Thomas Hester, said the organisation leveraged unique capabilities, including coercive powers, as a deliberate strategy to target criminal organisations in the border region.

“The criminal intelligence insights developed by the ACIC during this operation has significantly contributed to the results achieved by our policing partners over the last two weeks,” Mr Hester said.

“Given the nature of criminal organisations in the region, our relationships with state and federal policing partners are more important than ever before, and in addition to the results achieved, this operation has ensured we now have greater knowledge of organised crime networks operating in the area.”

“Our priority is to continue taking a coordinated multi-jurisdictional approach to target these networks, collect intelligence about their criminal activities to disrupt their operations and strip them of their criminal wealth.”

“The ACIC also wishes to acknowledge the dedicated policing and intelligence gathering efforts brought to bear against organised crime in this region.

The genuine collaboration and partnerships across all agencies and jurisdictions resulted in excellent outcomes for the communities affected by these criminal groups,” Mr Hester said.

Commissioner Michael Barnes, NSW Crime Commission, congratulated all of those involved in the operation.

“The success of these past two weeks demonstrates the effectiveness of state and commonwealth agencies collaborating to bring their respective unique capabilities to bear on OCNs,” Mr Barnes said.

“Significant law enforcement outcomes have been achieved, including proceeds of crime confiscation, and this is proof that criminals can’t escape the attention of law enforcement by moving to secluded areas,” Mr Barnes said.

Anyone with information about Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs (OMCGs) or organised criminal activity should 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 social media pages.

Organised crime

OMCG

Illicit drugs

Police appeal to locate three men wanted over criminal group activity

Kate — Thu, 23 Dec 2021 02:22:40 +0000

Police appeal to locate three men wanted over criminal group activity Kate Thu, 2021-12-23 13:22

23 December 2021

NSW Police, Australian Federal Police, Australian Border Force, Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission

PLEASE NOTE: Images of Masood Zakaria, John Bayssari and Joseph Vokai, are available via Hightail https://spaces.hightail.com/receive/ocT0JPmCGP

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate three men who are wanted over their alleged participation in organised criminal groups in Sydney’s south-west.

Masood Zakaria – aged 26 – has an arrest warrant for conspire and agree to murder any person, two counts of knowingly direct activities of criminal group, participate criminal group contribute criminal activity, commercial drug supply, deal with proceeds of crime and contravene serious crime prevention order.

Additionally, arrest warrants have been issued for John Bayssari – aged 30 – and Joseph Vokai – aged 25 – for criminal groups offences. Police also wish to speak with the men in relation to an alleged conspiracy to murder another man in Sydney’s north earlier this year.

Detectives from the Criminal Groups and Raptor Squads believe the three men are actively evading police and may be attempting to flee the country.

The men may be travelling together and using cash to fund accommodation, transport, and other essential amenities to avoid detection by authorities.

The NSW Police Force, assisted by the Australian Federal Police and Australian Border Force, are conducting extensive searches and inquiries at airports and ports, as well as other transportation routes across NSW and Australia.

Further inquiries are also being conducted with the assistance of the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission.

Masood Zakaria is described as being of Mediterranean/Middle Eastern appearance, about 180cm tall, obese build, with brown eyes, black hair and a beard.

John Bayssari is described as being of Mediterranean/Middle Eastern appearance, about 175cm tall, with a large build, brown eyes, black hair and a beard.

Joseph Vokai is described as being of Pacific Islander appearance, about 185cm tall, with a solid build, brown eyes, cropped black hair, and likely to be unshaven.

Anyone who sights the men, or who has information relating to their whereabouts, is urged not to approach them, and call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

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

Organised crime

Illicit drugs

Joint Agency Task Force seizes $275 million worth of meth in Victoria, eight people arrested

Stephen — Tue, 11 Aug 2020 03:25:47 +0000

Joint Agency Task Force seizes $275 million worth of meth in Victoria, eight people arrested Stephen Tue, 2020-08-11 13:25

04 July 2016

Australian Border Force, Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission, Australian Federal Police, Australian Transactions and Reporting Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC), Victoria Police

A successful operation conducted by the Victoria Joint Organised Crime Task Force (JOCTF) has resulted in charges being laid against one Malaysian and seven Australian citizens for drug offences, and the seizure of approximately 275 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine, with a street value of around $275 million.

The multi-agency operation commenced in February in Melbourne following intelligence identifying this syndicate as being allegedly responsible for the importation of illicit drugs into Australia.

Subsequent investigations identified a number of shipping consignments linked to this syndicate.

Three shipping containers were intercepted and were searched by authorities. Approximately 275kg of crystal methamphetamine was secreted under the floorboards of three shipping containers

As part of a controlled operation, the containers were delivered last week to an industrial estate in Bayswater.

Subsequently, a number of people accessed the containers and search warrants were executed in the Melbourne suburbs of South Yarra, Braybrook, Bayswater, Brunswick, Box Hill and Glen Waverley.

This is the biggest methamphetamine seizure in Victoria this year.

The eight men are aged between 24 and 34. Three were charged with commercial drug importation offences and the five others were charged with attempting to possess and trafficking a large commercial quantity of methylamphetamine.

The maximum penalty is life imprisonment.

Investigations remain ongoing and further charges have not been ruled out.

This seizure and arrests are the result of a four-month investigation by the JOCTF, with the assistance of AUSTRAC. Today’s results bring the total seizures for this investigation to more than 300kg of methamphetamine and $1 million cash.

During this operation the AFP worked with Chinese authorities on Taskforce Blaze, which investigates criminal syndicates trafficking ice to Australia and internationally.

Australian Federal Police Assistant Commissioner Ian McCartney, National Manager Organised Crime and Cyber, commended the efforts of police and partner agencies for their effective collaboration.

“The persistence and dedication of police and partner agencies has seen the interception and future destruction of more than two and a half million hits of this insidious drug,” Assistant Commissioner McCartney said.

“We will be relentless in our pursuit of organised crime. This result is a clear example of what the combined powers of all of our agencies can achieve.”

Victoria Police Assistant Commissioner Crime Command Stephen Fontana said that the combined power of a multi-agency approach is invaluable in targeting these types of syndicates however what must be turned around is the continual demand for illicit substances.

“I am so proud of the tireless work of our members but what we are looking at is an ever increasing demand for illicit drugs,” Assistant Commissioner Fontana said.

“As long as there is demand, there will be a market which in turn cannot be measured in the harm transferred through to our community, our families and our loved ones.

“Further addiction, road trauma, violent and volume crime, domestic violence, all of us, are affected by an insidious revolving cycle.”

Acting Australian Border Force Assistant Commissioner Strategic Border Command, Tim Fitzgerald said this latest seizure is significant, not just for its weight, but for the fact it was targeted and uncovered as a result of intelligence developed and shared between agencies.

“The ABF will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners, using our officers’ expertise and deploying our full suite of detection technologies to intercept these dangerous drugs and stop them entering Australia,” acting Assistant Commissioner Fitzgerald said.

“These drugs cause significant harm to Australian communities and families and the ABF is proud of our role in helping to keep these dangerous drugs off our streets.”.”

Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission National Manager Operational Strategy, Richard Grant, said the profitability and success of serious and organised crime comes at a cost for individuals, families, the community, government and ultimately to all Australians.

“This operation has not only prevented the misery and harm caused by 2.75 million street deals of methamphetamine, it has also prevented the diversion of millions of dollars away from the legitimate economy,” Mr Grant said.

John Visser, National Manager International of Australia’s financial intelligence agency AUSTRAC, said his agency is working closely with law enforcement partners to protect the Australian community and our economy from the harm of criminal syndicates.

“AUSTRAC’s intelligence and analysis has been central to supporting the joint investigation and identifying the main offenders, tracking down other entities of interest and following the money trail associated with the criminal activities,” Mr Visser said.

The Victoria JOCTF is a team of specialists from the Australian Federal Police (AFP), Victoria Police (VicPOL), the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC) and Australian Border Force (ABF).

Illicit drugs

Organised crime

Four kilograms of drugs seized - man arrested

Stephen — Tue, 11 Aug 2020 03:24:37 +0000

Four kilograms of drugs seized - man arrested Stephen Tue, 2020-08-11 13:24

14 July 2016

Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission, South Australia Police

Police have seized four kilograms of methamphetamine and arrested a man following an investigation into drug trafficking in South Australia.

Officers from SAPOL’s Serious and Organised Crime Branch (SOCB) and the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC) have been conducting the joint operation into the transportation of illegal drugs into the State.

At about 12.30am yesterday, police stopped a car on the South Eastern Freeway at Mount Osmond. A search of the car uncovered four one-kilogram bags of methamphetamine.

After further enquiries, police later attended Adelaide Airport and arrested a 24-year-old man from New South Wales. He has been charged with trafficking a large commercial quantity of a controlled drug, and was refused bail to appear in the Adelaide Magistrates Court today.

Detective Superintendent Craig Patterson, officer in charge of SOCB says, “This is an example of a coordinated multi-agency response by working together to make the community safer by removing illicit drugs before they hit the streets. This operation highlights the information sharing and joint investigations which are undertaken within this State to take methamphetamine off the streets. This is a reminder to the community that people who seek to traffic illicit drugs can face penalties of up to $500,000 and or life imprisonment.”

Mario Armiento, ACIC State Manager of South Australian Operations says, “The Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission has assessed that methamphetamine poses—by far—the greatest threat to the Australian public of all illicit drug types, and by a significant margin. More than 60 per cent of Australia’s highest risk serious and organised crime targets are involved in the market. The profitability and success of serious and organised crime comes at a cost for individuals, families, the community, government and ultimately to all Australians

Further enquiries continue into the matter, and police anticipate further arrests and charges.

Anyone with information about the manufacture, possession and sale of illegal drugs is asked to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or online at https://crimestopperssa.com.au

Illicit drugs

Organised crime

New highs for illicit drug seizures and arrests

Stephen — Tue, 11 Aug 2020 03:16:50 +0000

New highs for illicit drug seizures and arrests Stephen Tue, 2020-08-11 13:16

04 August 2016

Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission

The number of national illicit drug seizures and arrests has reached new highs, according to a report released today by the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC).

In the 2014–15 financial year Australian law enforcement agencies made a record 105,862 national illicit drug seizures, weighing a total of 23.5 tonnes, with a record 133,926 national illicit drug arrests.

The Illicit Drug Data Report 2014–15 (IDDR) is a statistical report which provides governments, law enforcement agencies and policy makers with a robust picture of the Australian illicit drug market. It pulls together data from all state and territory police agencies, the Australian Federal Police, the Department of Immigration and Border Protection/Australian Border Force and forensic laboratories.

Minister for Justice, the Hon. Michael Keenan MP launched the report alongside ACIC Chief Executive Officer, Mr Chris Dawson, in Adelaide.

“This year, for the first time, the IDDR includes data from wastewater analysis,” Mr Dawson said.

“Wastewater analysis is recognised internationally and increasingly in Australia, as being the most effective, and arguably the only objective means of reliably measuring the level of use of a number of prominent illicit drugs.”

The agency recently received $3.6 million from Proceeds of Crime funding over a three year period to fund a national pilot wastewater analysis program. This program will provide leading-edge, coordinated national research and intelligence on illicit drugs, with a specific focus on methylamphetamine.

“The data obtained from wastewater analysis will provide law enforcement, policy, regulatory and health agencies with additional and more objective data in relation to the usage of methylamphetamine and other drugs,” Mr Dawson said.

“While illicit drug statistics do fluctuate from year to year, when looking at the last decade of statistics, the number and weight of national seizures, as well as the number of national illicit drug arrests have dramatically increased.”

“Australian law enforcement is disrupting more criminals and seizing more illicit drugs than ever before.”

“The statistics in the IDDR will inform prioritisation and decision-making to help protect Australia and minimise the threat, harm and destruction caused by illicit drugs,” Mr Dawson said.

The Illicit Drug Data Report 2014–15 is available online.

Key findings from Illicit Drug Data Report 2014–15

The number of national illicit drug seizures increased 13.7 per cent, from 93,086 in 2013–14 to a record 105,862 in 2014–15.

The weight of illicit drugs seized nationally decreased 13.9 per cent, from 27.3 tonnes in 2013–14 to 23.5 tonnes in 2014–15.

The number of national illicit drug arrests increased 19.5 per cent, from 112,049 in 2013–14 to a record 133,926 in 2014–15.

With the exception of other and unknown, not elsewhere classified drugs[1], the number of national illicit drug seizures increased across all illicit drug categories.
For a second time in the last decade, ATS accounted for the greatest proportion of the weight of illicit drugs seized nationally in 2014–15.
The number of national illicit drug arrests increased across all illicit drug categories in 2014–15.
The threat posed by Amphetamine Type Stimulants (ATS) remains high, with national seizures and arrests associated with these drugs the highest on record.
Cannabis and other and unknown, not elsewhere classified drugs were the only two illicit drug categories to report a decrease in the weight of drugs seized nationally in 2014–15, decreasing 15.1 per cent and 81.8 per cent[2] respectively.
For the first time the IDDR contains wastewater data on methylamphetamine, MDMA and cocaine, with reporting indicating that methylamphetamine use in the community has been increasing since 2009–10.
Although the proportion of national arrests related to cannabis has decreased in recent years, cannabis continues to account for the greatest proportion of national illicit drug arrests.
In 2014–15, the weight of national other opioid seizures increased 2,417.1 per cent, with a record 740 kilograms seized.
The 667 clandestine laboratories detected nationally in 2014–15 is the lowest number reported since 2008–09.

[1] Data for national other and unknown not elsewhere classified (NEC) drug seizures and arrests capture those drugs and substances outside the specific drug categories contained in the IDDR. This category covers a range of substances including precursors, anaesthetics, new psychoactive substances, pharmaceuticals and drugs not elsewhere classified.

[2] The considerable decrease in the weight of drugs seized within this category is largely due to a single 10 tonne seizure of benzaldehyde in 2013–14.

Wastewater analysis

Illicit drugs

Organised crime

Australian Capital Territory sees rise in amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS) seizures

Stephen — Tue, 11 Aug 2020 03:14:56 +0000

Australian Capital Territory sees rise in amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS) seizures Stephen Tue, 2020-08-11 13:14

04 August 2016

ACT Policing, Australian Border Force, Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission, Australian Federal Police

The total number and weight of amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS) seizures in the Australian Capital Territory has significantly increased, according to a new report by the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC).

The Illicit Drug Data Report 2014–15, released today, shows the total number of ATS seizures in the Australian Capital Territory has increased by 67 per cent, with a total weight increase of more than 104 per cent from 2013–14.

Minister for Justice, the Hon. Michael Keenan MP, launched the report alongside ACIC Chief Executive Officer, Mr Chris Dawson, in Adelaide.

“The total number and weight of national ATS seizures has risen, with a record 12.6 tonnes seized,” Mr Dawson said.

“The Australian Capital Territory reported the greatest percentage increase in the weight of other and unknown drugs seized during 2014–15,”Mr Dawson also said.

Commander Andrea Quinn of ACT Policing said that too often police see the devastation that is caused to individuals caught in the grip of illicit drug use, and the community around them.

“As police, our focus is on targeting and apprehending those who choose to manufacture, traffic and sell illicit substances,” Commander Quinn said.

“ACT Policing would like to thank the community for their ongoing assistance in working with police to put these offenders before court, breaking the chain of supply.”

Australian Federal Police (AFP) Commissioner Andrew Colvin said the combined efforts by agencies has led to an increase in illicit drug seizures and arrests nationally.

“This year’s report demonstrates the close collaboration between law enforcement agencies has led to 13.7 per cent more drugs seized and 19.5 per cent more arrests from the previous year.

“But we are not complacent. Disrupting the supply chain for narcotics is vital to ending the devastation of illicit drugs. The AFP has recently recommitted to close working relationships with China, Vietnam and Cambodia to address the shared threat of transnational and organised crime. These partnerships provide significant value for Australian law enforcement in terms of our understanding of concealment methods, trafficking routes and syndicates facilitating narcotic imports into Australia.”

“Due in part to our wealthy status and our use of technology, Australia remains a target for criminal networks. The illicit drug data report is imperative in providing intelligence to the AFP’s International Network and aids in the development of off-shore partnerships to target illicit drug importation at its source,” Commissioner Colvin said.

Australian Border Force (ABF) Commissioner, Roman Quaedvlieg, said the ABF will continue to work closely with its partners to combat the threat of illicit drugs.

“While it is satisfying to note increased detections and arrests by the law enforcement community, it’s also a salutary reminder that the threat posed by illicit drugs is ever present,” he said.

“At this time, the most prominent of those threats is methamphetamine and its precursors and derivatives. The ABF is working with its partners to combat this pernicious drug.”

The Illicit Drug Data Report 2014–15 is a statistical report which provides governments, law enforcement agencies and policy makers with a robust picture of the Australian illicit drug market. It pulls together data from all state and territory police agencies, the Australian Federal Police, the Department of Immigration and Border Protection/Australian Border Force and forensic laboratories.

For the first time, the report includes data from wastewater analysis to provide law enforcement, policy, regulatory and health agencies with additional and more objective data in relation to the usage of methylamphetamine and other drugs.

“The statistics in the report will inform prioritisation and decision-making to help protect Australia and minimise the threat, harm and destruction caused by illicit drugs,” Mr Dawson said.

The Illicit Drug Data Report 2014–15 is available online at www.acic.gov.au

Illicit drugs

Organised crime

New South Wales remains vigilant against illicit drugs

Stephen — Tue, 11 Aug 2020 03:12:40 +0000

New South Wales remains vigilant against illicit drugs Stephen Tue, 2020-08-11 13:12

04 August 2016

Australian Border Force, Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission, Australian Federal Police

New South Wales continues to account for the greatest number of cannabis, heroin, cocaine and amphetamine-type stimulant (ATS) seizures in Australia, according to a new report by the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC).

Minister for Justice, the Hon. Michael Keenan MP, launched the report alongside ACIC Chief Executive Officer, Mr Chris Dawson, in Adelaide.

“In New South Wales, ATS accounted for more than 72 per cent of the weight of illicit drugs seized, the highest proportion reported by any state or territory in 2014–15,” Mr Dawson said.

“Also, more than six per cent of illicit drug seizures in New South Wales related to heroin and more than five per cent related to cocaine. These again are the highest proportions reported by any state or territory in 2014–15.”

Australian Federal Police (AFP) Commissioner Andrew Colvin said the combined efforts by agencies has led to an increase in illicit drug seizures and arrests nationally.

“This year’s report demonstrates the close collaboration between law enforcement agencies has led to 13.7 per cent more drugs seized and 19.5 per cent more arrests from the previous year.

Australian Border Force (ABF) Commissioner, Roman Quaedvlieg, said the ABF will continue to work closely with its partners to combat the threat of illicit drugs.

“At this time, the most prominent of those threats is methamphetamine and its precursors and derivatives. The ABF is working with its partners to combat this pernicious drug.”

“The statistics in the report will inform prioritisation and decision-making to help protect Australia and minimise the threat, harm and destruction caused by illicit drugs,” Mr Dawson said.

Now in its 13th edition, it is the only report of its type in Australia and provides an important evidence base to assist decision-makers in developing strategies to combat the threat posed by illicit drugs.

The Illicit Drug Data Report 2014–15 is available online at www.acic.gov.au

Illicit drugs

Organised crime

Double the arrests for amphetamines in the NT

Stephen — Tue, 11 Aug 2020 03:10:44 +0000

Double the arrests for amphetamines in the NT Stephen Tue, 2020-08-11 13:10

04 August 2016

Australian Border Force, Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission, Australian Federal Police, Northern Territory Police

The Northern Territory reported twice the number of arrests for amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS) in 2014–15 compared with the previous year, according to a new report by the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC).

The Illicit Drug Data Report 2014–15 released today shows that ATS arrests in the Northern Territory increased from 138 in 2013–14 to 282 in 2014–15.

Included in these statistics are prices for crystal methylamphetamine (ice), for which users in the Northern Territory continue to pay a high price of $900 to $1200 per gram.

Minister for Justice, the Hon. Michael Keenan MP, launched the report alongside ACIC Chief Executive Officer, Mr Chris Dawson, in Adelaide.

“The increase in arrests highlights the continued vigilance and success of law enforcement in combating illicit drugs in the Northern Territory,” said Mr Dawson.

“Illicit drugs are often behind violent crimes and put immense strain on our health services. I commend our law enforcement partners for disrupting this insidious trade that profits from our misery.”

NT Police Commissioner Reece Kershaw supports the comments of the ACIC, stating that the figures are reflective of the persistent efforts of NT Police targeting illicit drugs.

“Targets such as organised crime, as well as solo operators, have successfully had their drug trafficking activities disrupted and dismantled by law enforcement operations,” Commissioner Kershaw said.

“Such is the nefarious nature of methamphetamines that NT Police have engaged in cross border operations with partner counterparts Australian Border Force, Australian Federal Police and the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission through Joint Agency Taskforce Nemesis to tackle the importation, manufacture and trafficking of illicit drugs in the community”

Australian Federal Police (AFP) Commissioner Andrew Colvin said the combined efforts by agencies has led to an increase in illicit drug seizures and arrests nationally.

“This year’s report demonstrates the close collaboration between law enforcement agencies has led to 13.7 per cent more drugs seized and 19.5 per cent more arrests from the previous year.

Australian Border Force (ABF) Commissioner, Roman Quaedvlieg, said the ABF will continue to work closely with its partners to combat the threat of illicit drugs.

“At this time, the most prominent of those threats is methamphetamine and its precursors and derivatives. The ABF is working with its partners to combat this pernicious drug.”

“The statistics in the Illicit Drug Data Report will inform prioritisation and decision-making to help protect Australia and minimise the threat, harm and destruction caused by illicit drugs,” Mr Dawson said.

The Illicit Drug Data Report 2014–15 is available online at www.acic.gov.au

Illicit drugs

Organised crime

Queensland taking tough approach to cocaine

Stephen — Tue, 11 Aug 2020 03:09:37 +0000

Queensland taking tough approach to cocaine Stephen Tue, 2020-08-11 13:09

04 August 2016

Australian Border Force, Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission, Australian Federal Police

Queensland seized a higher proportion of cocaine relative to other drugs than any other state or territory in 2014–15, according to a new report by the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission.

The Illicit Drug Data Report 2014–15, released today, shows cocaine accounted for 4.1 per cent of the weight of illicit drugs seized in Queensland, the highest proportion reported by any state or territory in 2014–15. The number of national cocaine seizures this reporting period was also at a record high, accounting for 3.1 per cent of the number of national illicit drug seizures in 2014–15.

Minister for Justice, the Hon. Michael Keenan MP, launched the report alongside ACIC Chief Executive Officer, Mr Chris Dawson, in Adelaide.

“There is a perception among some drug users that their drug use hurts no one. This is far from the truth. The impact of illicit drug use on our society should not be underestimated,” Mr Dawson said.

Australian Federal Police (AFP) Commissioner Andrew Colvin said the combined efforts by agencies has led to an increase in illicit drug seizures and arrests nationally.

“This year’s report demonstrates the close collaboration between law enforcement agencies has led to 13.7 per cent more drugs seized and 19.5 per cent more arrests from the previous year.

“In the 2014–15, Australian law enforcement agencies made a record 105,862 national illicit drug seizures, weighing a total of 23.5 tonnes, with a record 133 926 national illicit drug arrests. The marked increase in seizures and arrests during this reporting period is a direct result of the continued vigilance of law enforcement in combating the illicit drug trade,” Mr Dawson said.

Australian Border Force (ABF) Commissioner, Roman Quaedvlieg, said the ABF will continue to work closely with its partners to combat the threat of illicit drugs.

“At this time, the most prominent of those threats is methamphetamine and its precursors and derivatives. The ABF is working with its partners to combat this pernicious drug.”

“The statistics in the report will inform prioritisation and decision-making to help protect Australia and minimise the threat, harm and destruction caused by illicit drugs,” Mr Dawson said.

The Illicit Drug Data Report 2014–15 is available online at www.acic.gov.au

Illicit drugs

Organised crime

South Australia cracking down on amphetamine-type stimulants

Stephen — Tue, 11 Aug 2020 03:08:23 +0000

South Australia cracking down on amphetamine-type stimulants Stephen Tue, 2020-08-11 13:08

04 August 2016

Australian Border Force, Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission, Australian Federal Police, South Australia Police

South Australia is the only state or territory where amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS) were the most seized drug in 2014–15, according to a new report by the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission.

The Illicit Drug Data Report 2014–15 released today shows all other states and territories reported ATS as the second most seized drug after cannabis.

Minister for Justice, the Hon. Michael Keenan MP, launched the report alongside ACIC Chief Executive Officer, Mr Chris Dawson, in Adelaide.

“South Australia reported the greatest percentage increase in the weight of ATS seized. The marked increase in the number and weight of seizures during this reporting period is a direct result of the continued vigilance of law enforcement in combating the illicit drug trade,” Mr Dawson said.

South Australia Police (SAPOL) and Forensic Science South Australia provided key data to the report, including information about the issuing of Cannabis Expiation Notices along with illicit drug seizures, arrests and purity.

Assistant Commissioner Linda Fellows (Crime) noted that in 2014–15 the concentrated efforts of SAPOL against those who profit, manufacture and distribute amphetamine type stimulants (ATS) resulted in this category of drugs accounting for 51 per cent of illicit drug seizures in South Australia—the highest proportion reported by any stated or territory.

“This is an outcome which highlights the continued success of law enforcement in tackling this surge, targeting criminals and disrupting their illicit business.

“It is also worth noting that the vast majority of cannabis matters in South Australia are dealt with by way of Cannabis Expiation Notices (CENs).

“In 2014-15 CENs accounted for 80 per cent of cannabis related police activity in South Australia. Excluding CENs cannabis accounted for 52.8 per cent and ATS for 38.2 per cent of illicit drug arrests in South Australia in the reporting period.”

Australian Federal Police (AFP) Commissioner Andrew Colvin said the combined efforts by agencies has led to an increase in illicit drug seizures and arrests nationally.

“This year’s report demonstrates the close collaboration between law enforcement agencies has led to 13.7 per cent more drugs seized and 19.5 per cent more arrests from the previous year.

Australian Border Force (ABF) Commissioner, Roman Quaedvlieg, said the ABF will continue to work closely with its partners to combat the threat of illicit drugs.

“At this time, the most prominent of those threats is methamphetamine and its precursors and derivatives. The ABF is working with its partners to combat this pernicious drug.”

The Illicit Drug Data Report 2014–15 is a statistical report, which provides governments, law enforcement agencies and policy makers with a robust picture of the Australian illicit drug market. It pulls together data from all state and territory police agencies, the Australian Federal Police, the Department of Immigration and Border Protection and forensic laboratories.

“The statistics in the report will inform prioritisation and decision-making to help protect Australia and minimise the threat, harm and destruction caused by illicit drugs,” Mr Dawson said.

The Illicit Drug Data Report 2014–15 is available online at www.acic.gov.au

Illicit drugs

Organised crime