Local authorities reported that nearly $400 million worth of cocaine was seized off the coast of Australia during a drug operation that led to the arrest of five men on Friday.
Police in New South Wales (NSW) began tracking certain vessels after receiving tips about a suspicious purchase of a boat made with large sums of cash back in late April. Both the NSW Police and the Australian Federal Police (AFP) collaborated in this investigation.
It seems that they monitored activities as the boat traveled north through areas like Nelson Bay and Port Macquarie.
Once the vessel returned to shore, marine officials initiated an interception.
According to authorities, they discovered about 1,110 blocks of cocaine aboard, totaling 1.039 tonnes. The estimated street value of this cocaine sits around $400 million, which is quite staggering.
Two men—ages 24 and 26—were apprehended on the boat itself, while three additional individuals, aged 28, 29, and 35, were arrested on the coast after police intercepted two vehicles trying to leave the area.
“Australia’s extensive coastline presents opportunities for organized crime trying to use boats for drug importation,” stated AFP assistant Stephen Dummett. “The unfortunate news for them is that we continue to collaborate with our partners to challenge these organized crime syndicates that believe they can operate without consequence.”
The two men detained on the boat are facing charges for supplying illegal drugs in substantial quantities, while the three arrested on land are accused of participating in the supply as well. All five are also indicted for involvement in a criminal organization.
They appeared in court and were denied bail.
Investigators are now focusing on the origins of the drug and attempting to unravel connections to other suspects involved.
