“Law enforcement officials have revealed that drug cartels from North America have surpassed their rivals in Southeast Asia to become the primary suppliers of methamphetamine to Australia. Police issued a warning, cautioning that Mexican gangs are intensifying their efforts to target the country’s drug market.”
“The Australian Federal Police, in collaboration with overseas authorities, intercepted a staggering 23.6 tons of methamphetamine produced in North America, intended for shipment to Australia during the 2022-23 financial year. This significant seizure was announced by the AFP in a statement released last week.”
“Police estimates indicate that product originating from Mexico, the United States, and Canada collectively constitutes at least 70% of the methamphetamine detected in Australia. In stark contrast, the proportion of Southeast Asian meth in drug seizures has plummeted to less than 15%. Methamphetamine, known for its highly addictive and potent stimulant properties, continues to pose a significant challenge for law enforcement efforts.”
Police did not specify the exact amount originating from Mexico but warned “Mexican cartels (are) increasingly targeting Australia.”
Australia remains “an enticing market for organized crime groups who exploit our people to derive large profits,” police commander Jared Taggart said in the statement.
While cannabis remains the most common illegal drug consumed in the country by a large margin, the use of meth and amphetamine, another nerve stimulant, has risen among younger drug users, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.
