Police uncover alleged drug operation as 150kg of pseudoephedrine hidden in pallets, coconut, mattresses

A man has been charged over his alleged role in a criminal syndicate involved in the importation, storage and supply of 150kg of pseudoephedrine across Sydney, worth $7.5 million.

Police were first made aware of the alleged syndicate in May 2021 when a “suspicious consignment” was intercepted by the Australian Border Force in Sydney.

The consignment contained 41kg of pseudoephedrine concealed within metal pallets.

Strike Force Nilland was formed to investigate the alleged importation of the drug.

Two more suspicious consignments were found including a further 49kg of pseudoephedrine concealed in bags of desiccated coconut and 48kg inside mattresses.

The total amount of pseudoephedrine has an estimated potential street value of $7.5 million.

Police will allege in court the strike force identified a criminal syndicate which had allegedly been involved in the importation, storage and supply of the drug across Sydney.

A 36-year-old man had already been arrested and remains before the courts.

A second 36-year-old was arrested about 9.30pm Tuesday at Sydney International Airport.

He was taken to Surry Hills Police Station and charged with three counts of import commercial quantity border-controlled precursor.

The Seven Hills man appeared at Central Local Court on Wednesday and was refused bail to appear at the same court on March 16.

Investigations are continuing.