SYDNEY, NSW, Australia - , Australian Federal Police (AFP) have shut down a secret drug lab in Sydney's west and seized more than 100kg of methamphetamine in a major blow to an alleged criminal syndicate.

The investigation began in October 2023 after US Customs and Border Protection intercepted a shipment of 27kg of methamphetamine hidden inside blankets from South America, destined for Australia. The drugs had an estimated street value of $25 million. US authorities alerted the AFP, triggering a months-long operation.

Police allege the syndicate was involved in multiple drug importation attempts, with Australian Border Force previously blocking some shipments. Investigators traced a phone number linked to the US seizure, leading them to properties in Cabramatta and Canley Vale, where encrypted communication devices and other evidence were found.

The breakthrough came on June 19, 2025, when AFP officers raided a home in Fairfield East and uncovered a clandestine drug lab. With assistance from NSW Police's Drug & Firearms Squad, officers dismantled the lab and seized:

• 77kg of drug-laced materials

• 39kg of pre-made methamphetamine

• 35kg of liquid suspected to contain meth

• Over 600 litres of chemical solvents

• Multiple electronic devices (under forensic examination)

AFP Detective Superintendent Morgen Blunden condemned the syndicate, saying organised crime groups "have complete disregard for the Australian community and are only motivated by greed."

"The people behind these importations don't care about the devastation drugs cause every day," Blunden said. He praised the AFP and NSW Police teams for their work in disrupting the operation.

Investigations are ongoing, with further arrests possible. Authorities have not yet confirmed if any individuals have been charged in connection with the bust.

This seizure marks one of Sydney's largest methamphetamine busts in recent years, dealing a significant blow to the illicit drug trade.