Northern Territory Police arrested two of the most recent offenders responsible for a large increase in the illegal supply of kava destined for remote communities in the Northern Territory.

Over the last five months police seized over 1.617 tonne of kava, that was destined for remote indigenous communities in East Arnhem Land. The majority of the substance was found as it was being transported from interstate by organised crime groups who do not live or have links within the remote communities.

Police estimate that 1.6 tonne of kava had the potential to supply over 32,000 people.

Two men, aged 39 and 49, were arrested and remanded in custody yesterday, to appear in Darwin Local Court today.  

Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Timothy Gardiner from the NT Police Drug and Organised Crime Section said “It doesn’t matter which illegal commodity it is, if you want to exploit and take money out of our vulnerable communities, then police will happily seize your money and other assets.”

"The supply and distribution of illegal substances into vulnerable communities are a known catalyst for violence and neglect within family units and the money spent on illegal substances is money removed from being spent on necessities like food and power."

If you have information that can assist police disrupt the supply of illegal substances you can anonymously provide information via 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or through https://crimestoppers.com.au/.