A 37-year-old New South Wales man has been arrested in Sydney and charged with trafficking in a controlled substance, following a significant investigation into the importation of illicit drugs to Tasmania.

The man appeared in court in Sydney today and will be extradited to Tasmania tomorrow, to re-appear in the Hobart Magistrates Court.

The investigation, led by Tasmania Police’s Crime and Intelligence Command and supported by the Australian Federal Police (AFP) National Anti-Gangs Squad and the NSW Police Force’s Criminal Groups Squad began in August 2021.

It involved more than 25 investigators and significant specialist resources across Tasmania and NSW.

Police will allege that the man has directed and facilitated the importation of significant quantities of methylamphetamine, cocaine and heroin into Tasmania since May 2019.

The investigation included a range of searches in both NSW and Tasmania, with four luxury vehicles and a motorcycle, valued in excess of $2 million, seized by police.

Detective Acting Inspector Deearna Rowe from the Crime and Intelligence Command said Tasmania Police is committed to preventing the importation and distribution of illicit substances.

“We work closely with our law enforcement partners to ensure our air, sea and mail corridors are not exploited by those wanting to profit from drug distribution, and we thank these partners for their ongoing support.”

“Anyone with information about drugs in our community should contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers Tasmania on 1800 333 000 or at crimestopperstas.com.au.”

“Information can be provided anonymously.”

AFP Acting Superintendent National Anti-Gangs Squad, Rachel Batterham said Australian law enforcement agencies are more united than ever in the fight against organised crime.

“The success of this operation could not have been achieved without the excellent cooperation and longstanding valued relationship with Tasmania Police and NSW Police.” 

“The AFP will continue to work with local and international law enforcement agencies to bring to justice those that attempt to import illicit drugs.”