Last week, Australian Customs and Border Protection Service (ACBPS) officers in NSW and Victoria seized approximately 32 kilograms of ephedrine.
The drugs were detected in 14 separate consignments from Hong Kong, China, India and Ireland at the NSW International Mail Centre, the NSW Air Cargo facility and the VIC Air Cargo facility between Monday 20 and Sunday 26 May.
ACBPS officers found ephedrine concealed inside bags of sugar, sanding machines, steel rods, foodstuffs, packets of oatmeal, bags of tea, pistons, tape dispensers, packets of coffee, zip lock bags and clear plastic envelopes.
Ephedrine is a precursor drug used to manufacture illegal amphetamine-type substances such as ‘ice’. Importing ephedrine without a permit is prohibited.
“If you are caught importing a border controlled precursor such as ephedrine, you could face a fine of up to $510,000 or 15 years in prison,” said ACBPS national manager cargo operations, Jagtej Singh.
“No matter how these prohibited substances are concealed, [we] have the intelligence, technology and expertise to detect these dangerous drugs, seize them at the border and stop them from entering our communities.”
Members of the public are encouraged to report any suspicious behaviour to Customs Watch on 1800 06 1800. (76)