Australia’s Northern Territory Police have arrested five adults and intercepted a significant quantity of kava in a targeted operation across the East Arnhem Region.
The operation began on Wednesday, April 16, after police received intelligence that a large shipment of kava was being transported to Ramingining and Gapuwiyak.
The Dog Operations Unit (DOU) established a cordon along the Stuart Highway to intercept the suspects, but the alleged offenders evaded initial police efforts and turned back toward Katherine.
Two vehicles were stopped on the Stuart Highway, where officers conducted a search, uncovering 121kg of kava (a commercial quantity), 250g of cannabis and several bottles of spirits.
Two women and three men, aged between 47 and 59, were arrested and charged with possessing a commercial quantity of kava, supplying a commercial quantity of kava and supplying a dangerous drug (Schedule 2) to an Indigenous community.
Senior Sergeant Meacham King praised the operation, stating: “This operation demonstrates the ongoing commitment of the DOU in disrupting the flow of destructive substances into vulnerable communities. We will continue to target individuals who facilitate the illegal supply of regulated substances.”
He also commended the collaboration between units, saying: “This was an excellent effort by all divisions involved, and I thank the officers for their swift action in making these apprehensions.”
Kava, a traditional Pacific Islander drink, is strictly regulated in the Northern Territory due to its potential for misuse in Indigenous communities. Authorities remain vigilant in preventing its illegal distribution.
Investigations are ongoing.
