Cocaine worth $9m seized from large-scale secret lab in remote Yass home

Detectives have uncovered a large-scale secret drug lab and seized $9 million of drugs during a search at a remote home in regional New South Wales.

Four men, including a Spanish national, have been charged as part of an investigation into the manufacture and supply of prohibited drugs in the Southern Tablelands.

Detectives from the Drug and Firearms Squad arrested the four  – aged 19, 25, 35 and 40 - in the town of Yass yesterday following an extensive investigation which began in April.

Together with the Australian Federal Police (AFP) and officers from The Hume Police District, police executed a search warrant at the rural property in Yass, north of Canberra, as well as a crime scene warrant at the hotel.

Investigators allegedly uncovered a large-scale clandestine laboratory at the rural home and have already began dismantling the lab with the assistance of the Chemical Operations Unit.

The process is expected to continue today.

Investigators also allegedly located 30kg of cocaine, chemicals used in the manufacture of drugs, drug paraphernalia, Australian and European cash, and mobile phones. All have have been seized by detectives and are expected to undergo forensic examination.

The four men were charged with manufacture large commercial quantity of prohibited drug and supply large commercial quantity of prohibited drug.

They were refused bail and will appear at Goulburn Local Court later today.

Drug and Firearms Squad Commander Detective Acting Superintendent Jayne Doherty praised the work of police in getting this 'poison' off the streets.

“We’ve seen the effects of these prohibited drugs in regional areas and how it can wreak havoc on communities,” she said.

“The main goal of those manufacturing drugs is to make money - there’s no quality control or concern for the health of those purchasing this poison.

“We are committed to removing these toxic substances from our streets, no matter where in NSW drug peddlers seek to make a profit off others’ misery.”

Investigations under Strike Force Judy are continuing.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au