A total of 327 kilograms of kava has been seized by Police in under three weeks following another kava bust in Darwin yesterday.
The seized kava was packaged into 16,600 individual plastic bags for sale in indigenous communities.
Police from the Dog Operations Unit and the Drug and Organised Crime Squad yesterday intercepted 75 kilograms of kava believed to be destined for a North Western Arnhem Land indigenous community.
Detective Superintendent Tony Fuller said the latest bust brings the potential total value between $332,000 and $830,000 for the kava seized in recent weeks.
"It is not just the health impact on the community members or the profits to be gained which concern us, it is also the economic impact that the large amount of money will have leaving the community,” Detective Superintendent Fuller said.
“The money does not stay in the community or the Northern Territory for that matter, it ends up lining the pockets of a few in the southern states who profit significantly from this illicit trade.
“NT Police appreciate the excellent assistance provided by members of the public who share our concerns and provide valuable information about these illegal substances.”
The three consignments consisted of the following weights:
- 162 kilograms packaged into 8,100 small bags - 28 June 2012
- 90 kilograms packaged into 5,500 small bags - 19 July 2012
- 75 kilograms packaged into 3,000 small bags – 23July 2012
If anyone has any information in relation to these or other drug matters please call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
