Police have foiled another alleged attempt by footballers to smuggle grog and drugs into a dry Aboriginal community.
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This is the second time in a year a football team has allegedly been caught in the same criminal act.
Police today claimed they seized a quantity of alcohol and cannabis from passengers on a chartered plane at Wurrumiyanga.
Wurrumiyanga Police attended the local airstrip around 7pm on Saturday after receiving information passengers were transporting illicit substances into the community from Darwin.
Police searched the passengers, nine of whom are players and staff of the Tiwi Bombers football team, and allegedly seized a total of 72 grams of cannabis, 20 grams of synthetic cannabis and four litres of alcohol.
Four men, aged 20, 26, 27 and 30, were issued infringement notices for possess drug in a public place and bring alcohol to an Indigenous community.
Investigations continue in regards to the distribution of synthetic cannabis.
AFL Northern Territory released a statement today saying it was aware of a police investigation regarding the attempt to smuggle alcohol and drugs and the involvement of footballers.
"Where possible, AFLNT will assist the NT Police with its inquiries and will work with the clubs and relevant parties," the statement said.
"AFLNT is not in a position to provide further comment until more details have been ascertained."
Just a year ago, police have seized a large quantity of alcohol and cannabis bound for the Gunbalanya community in west Arnhem land.
Police attended Gunbalanya Airstrip 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.
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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