Drug and Firearms Squad detectives have charged seven men after seizing illicit drugs with a street value of more than $40 million and uncovering a large-scale clandestine laboratory near Mudgee.
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Earlier this year, detectives from the Drug and Firearms Squad's Chemical Operations Team established Strike Force Vindin to investigate a criminal syndicate involved in the supply of precursors and manufacture of prohibited drugs across NSW.
Earlier this month, strike force detectives executed three search warrants at storage sheds at Prospect, where they seized 150kg of methylamphetamine (ice) and 14kg of cocaine, with a combined estimated potential street value of $33 million.
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Officers also seized $1.5 million cash, as well as large quantities of chemicals and solvents consistent with the manufacture of prohibited drugs.
As part of ongoing inquiries, strike force detectives executed a further six search warrants and two crime scene warrants at properties across Greater Sydney and Pyramul from 6am on Thursday, August 12, 2021.
During the searches, officers seized more than $3.2 million cash, two rifles, luxury watches, electronic devices, documentation and several vehicles.
Detectives also located hundreds of litres of chemicals and approximately 400kg of liquid - believed to be unrefined cocaine - from a Pemulway residence.
At the remote rural property at Pryamul, police uncovered a large sophisticated clandestine laboratory. During the initial deconstruction, officers located a further 15kg of cocaine, as well as chemicals and thousands of litres of liquids.
All items and substances seized during the operation will undergo further forensic examination.
The combined estimated potential street value of the illicit drugs seized during the operation is more than $40 million.
Following inquiries, eight men - aged between 31 and 54 - were arrested.
Seven were charged with drug-related offences, while the eighth was issued a $1000 Penalty Infringement Notice (PIN) for breaching the Public Health Order and released.
Investigations are continuing.
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