NCA Success In Breaking Heroin Syndicate

NCA Success In Breaking International Heroin Syndicate

Wednesday 4 August 1999

Minister for Justice and Customs, Senator Amanda Vanstone, today congratulated the National Crime Authority on its success in dismantling an alleged major international heroin syndicate.

"While the seizure of 8 kilograms of heroin as a result of the operation, in Melbourne, is important, it hides the true significance of those allegedly involved in this heroin syndicate," Senator Vanstone said.

"This operation has dealt a lethal blow to what is believed to be a major international heroin importation and distribution network.

"These types of operations are possibly the most important undertaken by our major law enforcement agencies because of the potential long-term impact they can have on drug importation and distribution," Senator Vanstone said.

Four people were arrested overnight in Melbourne including one man believed to be a very high level member of the alleged heroin syndicate.

The four are expected to appear in court this morning.

"The team of more than 50 officers involved in this operation over almost a year deserve the highest praise," Senator Vanstone said.

"It is as a result of those officers' dedication and sheer hard work, backed by the Federal Government's commitment to tackling illicit drugs through the Tough on Drugs strategy, that this operation and others like it are brought to a successful conclusion.

"It appears that this operation has shutdown what was a highly sophisticated heroin importation operation with well established wholesaling and distribution networks along with a money laundering operation to deal with the proceeds.

"Recognition also should be paid to the involvement of the Australian Federal Police and, over the past two months, the Victoria Police Drug Squad. Once again this highlights the enormous benefit of co-operative policing."

© Scoop Media