Network Against Prohibition (NAP) - NT Chapter

The limited options for drug users scoring on the black market in Darwin

There are several factors which contribute significantly to the (lack of) availability of quality class A and B substances in the Top End. Firstly, it should be pointed out that Darwin is a small community, and sometimes it seems as though one’s every move is noticed (tho. that could be a side effect of the ephedrine). Unlike larger Aussie cities, there is no real street scoring scene here. Anonymity is an unknown luxury and generally one needs to be “in the know”. As in most situations, it is advisable to use discretion at all times when organizing covert activity.

Darwin’s incredible geographical isolation to other Aussie pockets of populations and the fact that there’s only 1 road into town, means that there’s ample opportunity for the overfunded NT drug squad to observe the comings and goings of ‘persons of interest’. In incestual places, new things get noticed real quick.

Combine this unavoidable fact with the paranoia of old school locals who live in fear of “an invasion from the north”. These fears, identical to the current national hysteria of terrorist boat people, are used by the govt. to justify a fortified coastline, guarded heavily by the Australian navy and various other state sanctioned paramilitary outfits such as Australian customs. Hence, despite Darwin’s proximity to the more exotic shores of Asia, there is little in the way of quality Asian chemicals which make their way into our humble town.

What we black market reliant Darwinites are instead accustomed to, is a monotonous diet of prescription pills and carcinogenic home-bakes. Options for the opiophile are limited to:

M.S.Contin $50-60 per 100mg tablet

Kapanol $50-60 per 100mg tablet

Anamorph $20-25 per 30mg tablet

On offer to those who like things a bit more lively is: base (disguised ephedrine homebake) $50 per point (0.10g) or $300 per gram

Crystal meth $50-100 per point or $300-600 per gram

To the dismay of smokers, recent changes to legislation have driven the price of pot up to: $25-30 for a stick (approx 1- 1.3 g) or $50 for 3g or $300-400 per ounce

If you can find them, party drugs of varying quality can be found in some night clubs, bars and defence force house parties: acid $35 per trip

ecstasy $40-80 per tablet

cocaine: (a rarity) $300 plus per gram

Benzos can be obtained or swapped for other drugs from some obviously out-of-it types who may attracted to shopping centres for professional purposes.

Alcohol is available from nearly all supermarkets, bars and corner shops.

The best advice to people who may be thinking of coming to the Top End for a drug holiday- bring your own supply with you (and a little extra for the drug starved locals who will be more than receptive!!)

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