Darwin Substance Abuse Intelligence Desk Investigators and Dog Operations Unit Officers have seized 7.5 kilograms of Kava during screening of luggage and freight at the Darwin Airport.

Drug Detection Dog Nugget had a positive hit on a parcel, allegedly destined for a northern remote community, and on inspection it was found to contain 400 separate bags of Kava secreted inside cereal boxes.

“These substances are taking a terrible toll on people living in remote communities, both physically and financially.  Police will continue to disrupt supply and target the people who profit from them.”  Detective Senior Sergeant Clint Sims said.

Police estimate the Kava would have netted a minimum of $8,000 if it had been sold in remote communities.  Investigations into the origin and destination of the seized material are ongoing.