Members from the Drug Enforcement Section arrested a 46-year-old male yesterday in relation to a number of drug offences.

The man was pulled over about 30 kilometres South of Mataranka on the Stuart Highway just after 4:00pm. A subsequent search of his Holden Rodeo utility was conducted, revealing a total of 17.98 kilograms of Kava hidden under a rear seat.

He was arrested and conveyed to Darwin Watch House and charged in relation to the following offences:

possess kava - trafficable quantity x 2
supply trafficable quantity of kava
supply kava with a license

Police also seized the offender's vehicle; he is due to appear in Darwin Magistrates Court today.

Senior Sergeant Clint Sims from the Drug Enforcement Section said the drugs could have reached a value of at least $17 000 if sold in remote communities.

"NT Police are committed to keeping our remote communities safe and will continue to target and disrupt these drug smugglers," he said.

Media Contact:
Rickie Scoot
8922 3185