A 23-year-old Malaysian man has been sentenced to seven years in prison after pleading guilty for his part in importing 1.2 tonnes of ephedrine.
On 10 September 2019, ABF officers at the Sydney Container Examination Facility found the drugs in a container with a consignment of furniture.
One hundred twenty-seven boxes amongst tables, chairs and sofas contained 1.2 tonnes of the drug, which can be used to make methamphetamine.
ABF officers conducted what they said was a “managed delivery” of the container on 16 September 2019 to an address in Roselands NSW.
The Malaysian man was observed accessing the container and was arrested and charged with importing a commercial quantity of a border-controlled precursor.
He was sentenced today (17 March 2021) in Downing Centre District Court to seven years in prison with a non-parole period of four years.
Acting ABF Commander Enforcement Operations East Garry Low said the case served as a warning to criminals that the ABF will tirelessly investigate these offences, track down those responsible and bring them to justice.
“The seizure of 1.2 tonnes of ephedrine has prevented the potential manufacture of millions of hits of ice,” he said, referring to methamphetamine with a slang term.
“We know ice is causing significant damage to communities around the country which is why we are committed to stopping these substances from hitting the streets and catching those responsible and bringing them before the courts”.
Assistant Minister for Customs, Community Safety and Multicultural Affairs Jason Wood praised the diligence of ABF officers working across the country to protect the Australian community.
“The ABF officers involved in this case have worked tirelessly to ensure Australians are kept safe and criminals who have tried to profit from these substances are brought to justice.” he said.
“I would like to thank all the hardworking ABF officers deployed around the country who are performing a critical role in keeping the Australian community safe from illicit drugs and other dangerous goods.” ABF says people with information about the illicit importation of precursors or drugs should contact Border Watch by going to www.Australia.gov.au/borderwatch.
