More than $1 million in cash has been confiscated after being found in a car crossing the South Australian border from NSW.
Two men, aged 47 and 51 from the state’s Mid North region, will face court on Nov. 17 on a raft of money laundering and drug trafficking charges.
It follows police stopping a Holden Ute, driven by the 51-year-old man, just before midnight on Saturday at the Oodla Wirra checkpoint.
During a search of the vehicle, officers discovered the cash—mostly comprising $50 notes—as well as illicit substances GHB and methamphetamine.
He was arrested as police launched an investigation.
Three properties were then raided on Sunday, including one on the Mid North and two in the Barossa area.
Hydroponic cannabis set-ups were allegedly uncovered at the Mid North address and first Barossa property.
Equipment to grow cannabis hydroponically was seized at the second Barossa property where the other man was arrested and later charged.
The men have been refused bail and are expected to appear at magistrates courts in Port Pirie and Elizabeth on Tuesday.
“SAPOL continue to police highways and roads used to travel to and from South Australia,” a spokesman said in a statement.
“This significant seizure of cash should serve as a warning to organised crime groups that transport illegal commodities across our border.”
By Callum Godde in Adelaide
