Two people have been arrested at the Spirit of Tasmania ferry terminal in Geelong for allegedly trying to smuggle 6kg of MDMA across the Bass Strait.
The bust came as part of a national anti-drugs operation, ‘Operation Vitreus’, which has led to the arrests of over 1,600 people and the seizure of $93 million worth of drugs.
Victoria Police said the man and woman were stopped as they were about to board the vessel last Wednesday.
A search of their bags revealed 6kg of the drug, commonly known as ecstasy, “hidden amongst items”.
The man, a 44-year-old from the south-west Melbourne suburb of Newport, was charged with trafficking a large commercial quantity of MDMA.
He was remanded in custody to appear in the Melbourne Magistrates Court.
Victoria Police Detective Superintendent Dave Cowan said the operation’s illicit drug findings were “just a snapshot” of what police regularly see.
“Over $93M worth of illicit drugs were seized throughout the country last week alone and whilst it’s an incredible result, it aptly highlights the seemingly insatiable demand there is in Australia for illicit substances,” he said.
“We are at a pivotal point in this fight against illicit drugs and ultimately, we must challenge the attitudes around the use of illicit drugs in our community.”
“The success of this week of action should serve as a reminder to anyone in Australia who is involved in illicit drug and organised crime activity.”
“We will find you and we will hold you accountable.”
