Coober Pedy, SA – March 2025

Police in Coober Pedy have uncovered a significant quantity of illicit drugs thanks to the keen nose of Police Dog Neave, who sniffed out over 4 kilograms of dried cannabis during a targeted operation last week.

Detective Senior Sergeant Rob was “all smiles” following the successful find, which saw 4.2 kilograms of cannabis seized as part of a coordinated effort by SAPOL’s Far North Criminal Investigation Branch and Volume Crime Team. The bust is being hailed as a clear demonstration of South Australia Police's commitment to disrupting the drug trade, even in the most remote regions of the state.

The discovery was one of several successes from Operation Mile, an extensive crackdown on the trafficking of illicit drugs in the Far North. Concluding this week, the operation—spearheaded by Port Augusta detectives—has led to eight arrests and the laying of more than 150 charges of trafficking in a controlled drug since its launch in December 2024.

Key outcomes from the operation include:

Eight arrests for drug trafficking

Five premises searched

Over 200 exhibits seized, including more than 1.3 kilograms of methamphetamine

More than $10,000 in cash confiscated

A high-end vehicle seized for potential forfeiture

Recovery of stolen property, including a motorcycle and a valuable guitar linked to recent local break-ins

The following individuals have been arrested and charged:

A 32-year-old man from Whyalla

Two men, aged 68 and 57, and two women, aged 40 and 41, from Whyalla Norrie

A 40-year-old man and a 46-year-old woman from Port Augusta West

A 30-year-old man from Port Augusta

Far North Police say the operation has delivered a strong message to those involved in the illegal drug trade: rural and remote communities are not safe havens for criminal activity.

Police Dog Neave, whose role in the recent Coober Pedy bust was instrumental, has received praise from officers and the local community alike.

Author: Clark Kent