31/12/2012 – Customs and Border Protection officers have seized two kilograms of the precursor chemical ephedrine arriving into Sydney in air cargo from the United Kingdom last Friday.
When officers examined the package it was found to contain two bottles labelled ‘baby powder’ and two packets of Dead Sea bath salts, however both bottles and packets contained ephedrine.
Ephedrine is a precursor used to manufacture dangerous and illegal amphetamine-type substances such as ‘ice’. Importing ephedrine without a permit is prohibited.
Customs and Border Protection National Manager Cargo Operations, Jagtej Singh, used the seizure to highlight the wide variety of concealments Customs and Border Protection officers often see.
“Despite the fact that these chemicals were concealed inside bottles of baby powder our intelligence systems and the diligent work of our officers resulted in another successful seizure,” Mr Singh said.
“This year alone, we have uncovered drugs and illicit chemicals built into safes, kitchen utensils and lengths of industrial cable, concealed in food using fish paste, rice flour, wine, and hidden in other everyday items.
“If you attempt to import drugs and precursor chemicals, no matter how you conceal them, there’s a high chance Customs and Border Protection will find them and you will be caught.”
The illegal importation of precursor drugs can lead to dangerous illicit substances finding their way onto Australian streets. If you see or hear anything suspicious call Customs Watch immediately on 1800061800 or report online at http://www.customs.gov.au/customswatch, you can remain anonymous.
