Police have seized a large quantity of alcohol and cannabis bound for the Gunbalanya community in west Arnhem land.
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Police attended Gunbalanya Airstrip at 6 last night to undertake a search of a charter flight that was arriving in the community with a number of players returning from a football match.
Police searched the plane and allegedly located 39 bottles of spirits, 90 grams of cannabis and a two-litre cask wine.
Six offenders will be issued with notices to appear for bringing liquor into an alcohol protected area and for drug offences.
Constable First Class Matthew Houghagen said if the alcohol reached the community it undoubtedly would have resulted in a number of incidents within the community.
“Since this seizure there have not been any reports of such in Gunbalanya overnight,” he said.
Commander Michael Hebb said NT Police will be seeking discussions as soon as possible with representatives of the football club, and the football league, with regards to addressing this behaviour.
“Football players have an opportunity to establish themselves as role models within remote communities.
“This type of behaviour sends the wrong message to others, particularly the younger members of the community, and can lead to significant harm.
“Anyone with information on the transportation of alcohol or drugs into communities is asked to notify police on 131444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.”
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