At about 1.00 am this morning members apprehended a 4WD station wagon and detected a strong cannabis odour coming from the vehicle. A search revealed approximately 550 grams of cannabis hidden inside a plastic bucket.

The 32-year-old male driver and a 34-year-old female passenger were arrested and conveyed to the Katherine Police Station. The male was later charged with possession and supply of a commercial quantity of cannabis and was remanded in custody to appear in the Katherine Court today. The female was released without charge.

Divisional Superintendent for Katherine, Stephen Heyworth said, "This seizure is a result of a jointly funded initiative between FAHCSIA (federal government) and the Northern Territory Police who are committed in reducing the harmful effects of drugs upon our remote Australian communities."

"In this incident it is believed the cannabis was destined to be sold in Western Australia in the Kununurra region, and at street level would result in a return of approximately $16 500 and double that if sold in a remote community.

"Katherine SAID and NT Police will continue to target drug runners within the Northern Territory and interstate with similar random campaigns, "he said.

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Sue Bradley
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