DETECTIVES have charged four men, including a Spanish National, and started to dismantle a large-scale clandestine laboratory as part of an investigation into the manufacture and supply of prohibited drugs in the Southern Tablelands.
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In April 2019, detectives from the Drug and Firearms Squad commenced inquiries, under Strike Force Judy, into the manufacture and supply of cocaine and methylamphetamine.
Following extensive inquiries, strike force investigators arrested four men - aged 19, 25, 35 and 40 - outside a hotel in Yass just before 7.30am on Tuesday, June 4.
Detectives, with the assistance of Australian Federal Police and officers from The Hume Police District, executed a search warrant at a rural property in Yass and a crime scene warrant at the hotel.
MAP: Where the strike force arrests were made
At the rural property, investigators uncovered a large-scale clandestine laboratory and, with the assistance of the Chemical Operations Unit, started the dismantling process, which is expected to continue on Wednesday, June 5.
So far, strike force investigators have located 30 kilograms of cocaine, chemicals used in the manufacture of drugs, drug paraphernalia, Australian and European cash, and mobile phones.
These items were seized to undergo forensic examination.
The seized drugs have an estimated potential street value of $9 million.
All four men were charged with manufacture large commercial quantity of prohibited drug and supply large commercial quantity of prohibited drug.
They were refused bail to appear at Goulburn Local Court today.
Drug and Firearms Squad Commander, Detective Acting Superintendent Jayne Doherty, praised the work of investigators.
"We've seen the effects of these prohibited drugs in regional areas and how it can wreak havoc on communities," she said.
"The main goal of those manufacturing drugs is to make money - there's no quality control or concern for the health of those purchasing this poison.
"We are committed to removing these toxic substances from our streets, no matter where in NSW drug peddlers seek to make a profit off others' misery."
Investigations under Strike Force Judy are continuing.
Anyone with information that may assist Strike Force Judy is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.
Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report crime via NSW Police social media pages.
