Authorities have seized over a tonne of cocaine off the eastern coast of Australia, leading to the arrest of five men after law enforcement confronted a suspicious motorboat.
Detectives revealed they had begun investigating the vessel on April 28, when it was reported that a 13-meter boat was being bought with a significant amount of cash in Sutherland Shire, Sydney.
The police initiated their operation on Friday, intercepting the boat as it approached rocks southwest of the central New South Wales coast.
Upon inspection, officers discovered 1,110 blocks of cocaine, totaling more than a tonne.
This quantity of cocaine is estimated to hold a street value of $623 million.
Two men, aged 24 and 26, were apprehended, while three others, aged 28, 29, and 35, were caught onshore attempting to flee in two cars.
A search of a residence in Newcastle resulted in the confiscation of electronic devices, documents, clothing, and cash.
The men on the boat are accused of supplying large quantities of illegal drugs and being part of criminal organizations.
In addition, the three men on the coast face charges related to drug supply and participation in criminal groups.
All five individuals appeared in Parramatta bail court on Saturday, where they were denied bail pending a court date at Coffs Harbor District Court on July 15.
The Australian Federal Police Vice Chairman, Stephen Dummett, stated, “Australia’s extensive coastline is appealing to organized crime groups who aim to import drugs via boats.” He added that the AFP is committed to collaborating with partners to dismantle such criminal syndicates, as they cannot operate without facing consequences.
