Australian Authorities Issue Warning Amid Surge In Ketamin Imports

Australian law enforcement agencies, the Australian Border Force and the Australian Federal Police (AFP) alerted the public to a worrying rise in ketamine imports into the nation. Authorities recently disclosed data showing that 882 kilograms of ketamine were taken into custody in 2023—more than twice as much as 415 kg the year before.

Authorities are concerned about the increase in ketamine imports because they have discovered that transnational crime groups are hiding the substance using more advanced techniques to avoid being tracked down by law enforcement.

The largest seizure took place in July 2023, when authorities confiscated 84 kg of ketamine stashed inside two new commercial vehicles on a cargo ship destined for Sydney. The largest ketamine seizure in Australian history was also made that same month when the AFP found an additional 145 kg of ketamine in the state of Victoria.

Ketamine is a toxic sedative that can lead to death, disorientation, depression, seizures, and memory loss. Acting Commander Kristy Scott of the AFP highlighted the detrimental consequences of the substance, stating that its dissociative qualities might have severe consequences for consumers.

A substantial increase from prior years was observed in the 2022–2023 National Drug Strategy Household Survey, which found that about 300,000 people, or 1.4 per cent of the Australian population, had used ketamine over 12 months. According to the most recent study from Australia’s National Wastewater Drug Monitoring Program, ketamine usage in both capital city and regional locations was at a record high.

Scott reaffirmed the determination of law enforcement to investigate illegal drug organisations and capture individuals engaged in the importation of ketamine. She highlighted that in addition to confiscating the drugs, law enforcement is also detaining suspected criminals associated with the imports to prosecute them.

The joint statement acts as an alert to drug-trafficking organisations that attempt to bring illegal substances, including ketamine, into Australia and will be closely monitored and dealt with by Australian authorities.

Reference: afp.gov.au

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