Melbourne police have confiscated an extensive collection of Lego sets following a drug raid in the Botany Ridge area, according to The Australian Associated Press (AAP). The raid not only uncovered methamphetamine and a fake firearm but also 1,130 Lego boxes valued at approximately $200,000 AUD ($128,000 USD), prompting an unusual logistical response from authorities.
Detective Inspector Anthony Vella acknowledged the novelty of the situation to the AAP, noting the seizure’s uniqueness and logistical challenges, given the volume necessitated a specific truck for transportation. The raid also yielded two cases of valuable gemstones.
The Lego sets, part of an investigation that revealed the property’s use as a meth lab with substantial production capabilities, are being treated as “proceeds of crime,” authorities indicated. This marks a departure from typical raids where drugs and cash are the usual hauls.
A 36-year-old man was arrested and faces charges related to drug trafficking, proceeds of crime, and firearms offenses, while a 32-year-old woman was also found at the location but has not been charged. The arrested man is slated for a court appearance in February.
The Guardian adds that this seizure is particularly notable given the global revenue of Lego, which surpassed $9 billion in 2022, and the potential investment value of Lego sets. With their discovery at a meth lab, the legality of their procurement is in question, but police have justified their confiscation based on criminal association.
