A BATTLE WON IN A LONG WAR

We already knew from the number of addicts among us that SA's comparative geographic isolation had not spared us the tragedies, crimes and miseries of the modern drugs plague.

We have just been presented with hard evidence of involvement at another and frightening level.

The cocaine seizure -- valued at $63 million -- in Adelaide strongly suggests that we have become part of the international distribution web, one of notoriously vicious violence.

SA was probably seen as a soft and thus highly desirable option by the Mr Bigs of this obscene but hugely profitable trade. If so, the seizure demonstrates that the authorities are active, efficient and - we presume - well connected with enforcement agencies elsewhere. Yet the record with other drugs, notably heroin, also suggests that, large as it was, this shipment was not a unique event.

Justice Minister Amanda Vanstone was understandably buoyant about the outcome of the operation. We hope she is able to use this success to point to the value at and need for, a continued priority in budget allocations for the resources necessary to continue the war in which this was but one battle won.