A 31 year-old man and 37 year-old woman have been arrested and charged following a significant seizure of methylamphetamine (ICE) yesterday with a street value of around $500,000.

Members of Tasmania Police, with the assistance of the Spirit of Tasmania and Biosecurity Tasmania staff, intercepted two vehicles as they disembarked the Spirit of Tasmania in Devonport yesterday and, as a result of searches conducted, about half a kilogram (500 grams) of ICE was seized.

“This is part of an ongoing investigation which has resulted in more than 1.5kg of ICE, with a street value of $1.5 million, being seized in less than three weeks. I’m confident that the excellent work undertaken by police and our partners has disrupted the activities of individuals who seek to exploit vulnerable members of our community for their own personal benefit,” said Detective Inspector Kate Chambers.

“Our message to those criminals bringing these dangerous drugs into our state is that Tasmania Police, with the support of our partners, will hold you to account.

“This operation has removed over 15,000 street deals from vulnerable Tasmanians. By continuing to work together, we can really make a difference to people’s lives,” said Detective Inspector Chambers.

The man and woman were charged with trafficking in a controlled substance and will appear before the Devonport Magistrates Court at 10am this morning.

Anyone with information about drug distribution should contact Police on 131444 or report anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestopperstas.com.au