Two people have been charged with trafficking following a police operation at the Spirit of Tasmania terminal yesterday.

Members of Western Drugs and Firearms Unit identified a vehicle of interest disembarking the vessel in Devonport on Tuesday morning (23 June), before the vehicle allegedly evaded police.

The vehicle was located in Moriarty a short time later and two Risdon Vale women – aged 22 and 28 – were taken into custody without incident.

A subsequent search of the vehicle uncovered approximately 976 grams of crystal methylamphetamine (ice) and 53 grams of cocaine.

The women have been charged with trafficking and driving offences and were detained to appear in the Devonport Magistrates Court later today.

Detective Inspector Michelle Elmer said by seizing the quantities of illicit substances found during yesterday’s police were preventing about 9,800 individual street deals.

“These are not only illegal substances, they are also dangerous and have the potential to bring significant harm to the Tasmanian community,” she said.

“Tasmania Police will continue to target offenders who attempt to deal with illicit substances in Tasmania by conducting both targeted and random screening of persons transiting the state by sea and airports.

“Stopping these drugs before they reach our streets has prevented further harm to the Tasmanian community.”

Anyone with information about illicit substances is urged to contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestopperstas.com.au