D’oh! Comic books, wedding invites allegedly used to hide $15m Simpsons LSD haul
Sydney Morning Herald
by Erin PearsonFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A couple from the Mornington Peninsula has been charged with operating a $15 million LSD trafficking operation, using unconventional methods to conceal their activities. The drugs were hidden inside wedding invitations and comic books, leading police to discover 750,000 LSD tabs during an investigation in August. This seizure is believed to be one of the largest in Australian history.
The operation was allegedly run from a rented Mount Martha home, where police found a sophisticated drug lab equipped with chemicals capable of producing additional 600,000 tabs. Authorities also seized cryptocurrency worth millions and encrypted communication tools, highlighting the couple's high-tech approach to trafficking. The case has drawn attention for its scale and innovative methods, including using postal services and a laser printer to package and distribute drugs.
Kamini Joseph, 44, and Denis Petrovai, 35, face serious charges related to drug trafficking, possession of precursor substances, and money laundering. During the court proceedings, both defendants argued for bail due to health issues and cooperation with police. However, authorities opposed bail, citing concerns over potential interference with witnesses and further criminal activity.
This case underscores the growing complexity of international drug trafficking networks and law enforcement's ability to disrupt them. The seizure not only dismantled a significant operation but also highlights the risks posed by such large-scale drug distribution, which can have severe public health consequences. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue to pursue justice in this major narcotics case.
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/20/2026