Authorities Target Illegal Importation of 1,4 Butanediol
A 34-year-old Sydney man has been charged with importing seven liters of 1,4 Butanediol, a border-controlled drug classified under new Australian laws in March 2024. The man allegedly imported the drug, disguised as “rose oil” and “shark essence oil,” in two shipments from Hong Kong.
Australian Border Force (ABF) officers detected the shipments in May and June, prompting an Australian Federal Police (AFP) investigation. A search of the man’s Kirrawee unit on November 13 uncovered 80 grams of methamphetamine, suspected 1,4 Butanediol, a spring-loaded knife, and related evidence.
Authorities report escalating harm from 1,4 Butanediol, which transforms into GHB in the body and can cause severe nervous system depression, overdose, or death.
The accused faces charges for importing and possessing a commercial quantity of the drug, carrying a maximum life imprisonment penalty. A second NSW individual was also charged earlier this year. Law enforcement agencies remain committed to combating the illicit drug trade to protect Australians.
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