Northern SAID and DOU seized over $45,000 worth of kava in Maningrida yesterday.

Officers conducted a search on a vehicle and arrested the four male occupants; aged 27 years, 36 years and two 42-year-olds.

Kava detector dog, Archie was deployed and provided positive responses to the passengers and the interior of the vehicle.

A total of 45kg of kava was found, divided between three large bags containing a total of 3000 individual deal bags of 15 grams each.

A further 200 grams were located in the glove box, 30 grams on the rear seat and another 30 grams were found on one of the alleged offenders.  

All occupants were arrested and conveyed to Maningrida Police Station.  Their vehicle was also seized.  

The kava is believed to be destined for distribution in Maningrida and Milingimbi communities, with an estimated street value in excess of $45,000.

Investigations are continuing.

Acting Superintendent Clint Sims said, "The street value of this seizure is approximately $45,000.  This is a potentially significant amount of money coming out of the community and directly into the pockets of the criminals supplying this product.  Police will continue to target kava runners across the Top End because of the devastating effect it has on our communities."

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Lisa Hutton

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