AFP charges two more alleged offenders over attempted 850kg cocaine import
This is a joint release between the Australian Federal Police, Australian Border Force, Western Australia Police Force, Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission and Department of Home Affairs
A Perth man and woman are scheduled to face Perth Magistrates Court this afternoon (4 August) for their alleged roles in attempting to import 850kg of cocaine into Australia hidden on a bulk cargo carrier.
Police allege a Dianella man, 37, and a Doubleview woman, 32, were a part of the Australian-based syndicate responsible for collecting the drugs and facilitating the logistics of the importation.
Police executed search warrants at the duo’s respective homes yesterday (3 August), where they seized about $90,000 cash allegedly hidden in the bathroom cupboard of the man’s home and five mobile phones.
Both were arrested and charged with conspiracy to import a commercial quantity of border controlled drugs contrary to section 307.1(1), and by virtue of section 11.5(1) of the Criminal Code 1995 (Cth). The maximum penalty for this offence is life imprisonment.
The 850kg consignment was found in May 2023 after a joint agency investigation, which has now resulted in the arrest of seven people.
Police arrested three men in May, aged 21, 25 and 29, who had been travelling on the cabin cruiser and charged them for their alleged involvement in the attempted import. The vessel’s master, 43, and chief engineer, 39, were then arrested and charged in June 2023.
Investigations remain ongoing and further arrests have not been ruled out.
AFP Acting Inspector Kristen Swan said police remained dedicated to protecting the Australian community from the harm caused by cocaine, which many still perceived to be a ‘safe drug’.
“Cocaine is a highly addictive drug which can cause, among other conditions, psychosis, stroke, heart disease, kidney failure along with significant social and financial problems,” Acting Inspector Swan said.
“By stopping cocaine and other illicit drugs from reaching our shores, we are helping to keep our communities safe. Illicit drug use contributes to the road toll, child neglect and family violence.
“The AFP and our partners will continue to attack drug traffickers’ operations, logistics, finances and communications – both onshore and offshore.”
Note to media:
Media are encouraged to include help-seeking information in stories about illicit drugs to minimise any negative impact on people in the community. The following services provide people with access to support and information.
- For free and confidential advice about alcohol and other drug treatment services call the National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline on 1800 250 015.
- Access free 24/7 drug and alcohol counselling online at www.counsellingonline.org.au.
- For information about drug and alcohol addiction treatment or support, go to www.turningpoint.org.au.
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