Australian Federal Police Execute Historic Drug Bust, Arresting 13 in Major Cocaine Operation

In a groundbreaking operation, Australian police have apprehended 13 individuals in what is being called the largest cocaine seizure in the nation’s history, with illicit substances valued at nearly half a billion dollars. The Australian Federal Police (AFP) reported that a fishing vessel was tracked down to a mother ship off Queensland's coast, leading to this monumental haul.

P24 News Media

December 02, 2024

1 minute

Australian Federal Police Execute Historic Drug Bust, Arresting 13 in Major Cocaine Operation

India

In a significant operation, the Australian Federal Police (AFP) have arrested 13 suspects in connection with the largest cocaine seizure ever recorded in the country, amounting to a staggering 2.3 tonnes with a street value of $494 million. The arrests were made as authorities tracked a fishing boat which had reportedly ventured to rendezvous with a mother ship filled with illicit cocaine off the coast of Queensland.

The AFP's announcement came on Monday, revealing that among those detained were 11 men and two juveniles. The arrests occurred after the fishing vessel faced mechanical issues approximately 18 kilometers (10 nautical miles) off Australia's eastern coast. This operation not only led to the apprehension of suspects but also the confiscation of the massive cocaine shipment, highlighting the ongoing battle against drug trafficking in the nation.

The extensive investigation that culminated in these arrests was triggered by intelligence regarding a motorcycle gang's alleged plans to smuggle drugs into Australia. AFP Commander Stephen Jay emphasized the lengths to which criminals will go, jeopardizing their own lives in pursuit of profits, with no consideration for the damage their actions inflict on Australian communities.

Commander Jay remarked, “This alleged attempt to collect more than two tonnes of cocaine from the ocean illustrates the desperation and greed that drives these illicit enterprises. Those engaged in such trafficking not only risk their freedom but also their lives.” Each of the individuals arrested faces serious charges of conspiracy to import a substantial quantity of drugs regulated under border control laws. Should they be convicted, they could be sentenced to life imprisonment.

The scale of drug seizures by law enforcement in Australia has been alarming. During the current financial year of 2023-24, the AFP has confiscated a total of 31.3 tonnes of illicit substances and has collaborated with international authorities to seize another 41.8 tonnes of drugs worldwide. As the fight against drug-related crime continues, operations like these underscore the critical importance of intelligence sharing and international cooperation in combating drug trafficking.

Authorities remain vigilant and committed to dismantling drug syndicates that threaten public safety and wellbeing. These latest arrests serve as a reminder of the persistent challenge posed by organized crime in Australia, and the ongoing need for robust law enforcement strategies to protect communities from the harms associated with drug abuse and trafficking.