AN investigation into a threat by bikies has resulted in the largest seizure of ephedrine on record and the arrest of a drug supply syndicate during a multi-agency operation in NSW and ACT.

Detectives from the State Crime Command’s Gangs Squad commenced an investigation in December 2016 following reports of an extortion involving members of the Rebels outlaw motorcycle gang (OMCG).

Their inquiries revealed a significant drug supply network, which included OMCG and other criminal groups planning large-scale importation of border controlled drugs.

As a result of further investigations, which also involved Australian Border Force (ABF) officers and detectives from the Australian Federal Police (AFP) led National Anti-Gangs Squad and ACT Policing Taskforce NEMESIS, a shipping container was intercepted at Port Botany last Saturday (June 24).

The consignment was examined and 1.4 tonnes of ephedrine was located concealed in buckets labelled as sea salt.

This is the largest ephedrine seizure on record and the biggest seizure of precursor chemicals at the Australian border. It is estimated the amount of ephedrine could make up to 1.3 tonnes of ice, with an estimated potential street value of $650 million.

Following extensive investigations, police from NSWPF, assisted by AFP and ABF, commenced an operation across Sydney and in the ACT, at about 7am today (June 28).

Officers executed 28 simultaneous search warrants at properties at Kurrajong, Glenwood, Londonderry, Cabramatta, Canley Vale, Georges Hall, Merrylands, Minchinbury, Seven Hills, Fairfield, and Penrith, and Forde, ACT.

A clandestine laboratory was located at the Georges Hall address, which is being dismantled by the Drug Squad’s Chemical Operation Team.

During the warrants, officers seized five handguns, 6kg of ice, 10kg of ephedrine, a portable clandestine laboratory, and more than $2 million cash.

Investigators arrested 12 men – aged between 23 and 44 – who were taken to local police stations, where they will be charged over their alleged roles in the network.

NSW Police force commissioner Mick Fuller says this investigation is another example of the multifaceted nature of modern organised crime and the changing face of its structures, networks, and associations.

“It highlights the strong relationships between law enforcement agencies both in Australia and across the world, working together to successfully disrupt criminal enterprises,” he says.

Acting ABF commissioner Michael Outram says the seizure meant that 13 million individual hits of ice would now be destroyed.

“The 1.4 tonnes of ephedrine was seized before it crossed our border, before it could be used to make 1.3 tonnes of crystal methamphetamine and before it could make its way into the community,” he says.

Police are urging anyone with information in relation drug supply to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333000 or report via nsw.crimestoppers.com.au/