“DOPE” TRAFFIC.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 21022, 10 May 1930, Page 15

“DOPE” TRAFFIC.

DRUGS IN OLIVE OIL TIN. As the result of investigation into the drug traffic in Sydney, it was discovered that all manner of drugs were being imported . into the Commonwealth in tins labelled as foodstuffs. Among a consignment of olive oil in a bonded warehouse recently was found a particular tin which contained hundreds of pounds’ worth of narcotics. This revelation, following the seizure previously of a big parcel of hasheesh, a deadly Eastern narcotic and intoxicant, caused surprise in official circles. Neither the _ police nor the Customs apparently realised how cleverly illicit drug smugglers were evading the official prohibition. Even Sergeant Small, whose cleverness resulted in the disclosure that hasheesh was coming into Australia in large parcels, did not know how great were the ramifications of the drug traffic. Recently Sergeant Small discovered a letter which contained reference to a consignment of olive oil which had been shipped from Athens (Greece) to Sydney. There was also mention of one of the tins having been daubed with a little red paint on the bottom. The sergeant sought out the consignment, and each tin was examined until one with a daub of red paint was found. This was opened, and was found to contain hundreds of pounds’ worth of powerful drugs. It is expected that the discovery will not only lead to Customs officers being able to prevent drugs entering Australia in the guise of footstuffs, but will also lead to action by the League of Nations against European distributors of narcotics.