POLICE LAUNCH ECSTASY DATABASE

Police forces nationwide have launched a database to track batches of
ecstasy tablets as they are distributed across the country.

The database lists up to 1000 logos, shapes and chemical compositions of
illicit drug tablets seized in Australia.

Victorian Deputy Commissioner Peter Nancarrow said the database would
replace the previous ad hoc system between states and take out much of the
guesswork.

"No matter where the seizure is, police will be able to pinpoint where it
comes from, and how far the distribution extends," he said.

Victoria Police, the Victorian Forensic Science Centre and the Australian
Federal Police have been developing the database for more than 10 years.

Victorian Assistant Commissioner (Crime) Simon Overland said the up-to-date
information would give police more certainty in targeting the drug trade.

"It will help us identify which ports drugs are coming in and the
distribution once they've got into the country," he said.

"This should help us identify where the major point of entry to Australia is."

Mr Overland said plans were already underway to link the database
internationally.