A 45-year-old man from Latrobe Valley has had his extensive Lego collection confiscated after police seized over $600,000 worth of drugs in coordinated raids across Melbourne.
The individual is now facing a series of charges, including trafficking a large commercial quantity of a drug of dependence.
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The arrest unfolded after police from the Fawkner Divisional Response Unit executed search warrants at five properties in Morwell, Essendon North, Brunswick, and South Melbourne.
Police found a significant amount of illegal substances, weapons, and assorted luxury items believed to be funded by the proceeds of crime.
Among the confiscated items were 180 kilograms of 1,4-butanediol, a chemical that mimics the notorious drug GHB when ingested.
Additionally, authorities seized 34kg of iodine and 32 kg of hypophosphorous acid, both recognised as precursors in the production of methamphetamine.
The police operation also uncovered illegal steroids, methylamphetamine, a handgun, an extendable baton, ammunition, and three digital devices.
However, the most unexpected find was confiscating 74 boxes of Lego, along with one Rolex watch and four Breitling watches.
Investigators suspect these luxury items were purchased using the profits from criminal activities.
Fawkner Divisional Response Unit Detective Acting Sergeant Brad Hobbs emphasised the danger posed by 1,4-butanediol, saying, “Overwhelmingly what users believe is GHB is actually 1,4-butanediol.”
“The drug can be unpredictable, and the difference between survival and a fatal overdose can be very small,” he said.
“There is absolutely no safe amount to ingest — that’s why we’re committed to removing it from unintended hands.”
The 45-year-old Morwell man is now facing a total of 10 charges, including committing an indictable offence on bail and dealing with property suspected of being the proceeds of a crime.
He was remanded overnight and is set to appear before the Latrobe Valley Magistrates’ Court today.
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