Major Drug Bust in Londonderry
Australian law enforcement officials have intercepted an unprecedented 2.7 tonnes of cocaine, marking the nation's most significant drug seizure to date. The illicit substance, valued at an estimated A$816 million (approximately £433 million or €500 million), was discovered on Friday within an intricate network of underground bunkers. These concealed compartments were hidden beneath false floors inside three shipping containers located on a property in Londonderry, western Sydney.
Arrests and Ongoing Investigation
During the raid, two men, aged 21 and 25, were apprehended after reportedly attempting to evade police. They have since been charged with possessing a commercial quantity of an unlawfully imported border-controlled drug. Following a court appearance on Saturday, both individuals were remanded in custody and could face life imprisonment if convicted.
Authorities indicate that the cocaine was allegedly smuggled into Australia through Midge Point, a small town in North Queensland, under the direction of an organized crime syndicate.
Operation Minjiang and Broader Implications
The successful operation in Londonderry is part of a larger initiative known as "Operation Minjiang," which commenced in May after 40kg of cocaine was found floating near a boat ramp in Midge Point. This initial discovery sparked a wider investigation that has led to the arrest and charging of six additional individuals across Queensland and New South Wales.
Furthermore, an alleged "mother vessel" believed to be integral to the smuggling operation has been detained in the Solomon Islands, suggesting a sophisticated international network.
AFP Commander Stephen Jay commented on the alleged plot, stating, "how highly organised and determined these criminal networks are, and the extreme lengths they are willing to go to in pursuit of profit."
Investigations are continuing to determine the origin of the drugs, with law enforcement agencies collaborating both domestically and internationally to identify the criminal syndicates and all individuals involved in facilitating this alleged attempted drug importation.
Source: Largest ever cocaine bust in Australia after police raid underground bunker