Northern Territory Police have seized further quantities of cannabis destined for remote communities as part of Operation Starck.

Operation Starck was established by the Drug and Organised Crime Squad (DOCS) to disrupt the importation of illicit substances, including cannabis and alcohol, into remote communities. Screening of air and sea freight included the physical inspection of shipments by DOCS detectives and the use of drug detector dogs from the Dog Operations Unit.

Between Friday 24 April and Thursday 30 April 2020, police seized approximately 630 grams of cannabis destined for remote communities in the Northern Territory.

Police estimate the street value of cannabis seized to be upwards of $95,000.

One person was issued a notice to appear in court and two drug infringements were issued. Two further incidents are being investigated.

Detective Senior Sergeant Gargan from Drug and Organised Crime said, “Whilst we have noted a drop off in seizures this week that is somewhat pleasing as it demonstrates we have disrupted the criminal networks trying to profit from remote vulnerable communities. We will continue to maintain vigilance in targeting the supply of illicit substances into those locations.”  

Operation Starck will continue for the foreseeable future.

Anyone with information on the importation of illicit substances is urged to contact police on 131 444 or via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.