Australian Border Force (ABF) Maritime Border Command and ABF Operations North assisted in a major multi-agency operation last night that resulted in the dismantling of an Australian criminal network allegedly importing and manufacturing hundreds of kilograms of cocaine.
Multiple individuals were arrested as a result of this Australian Federal Police-led operation which took place across Queensland, the Northern Territory and New South Wales.
ABF Firearm and Currency Detector Dogs located currency concealed within paint tins at one premises, while assets from ABF Regional maritime teams, Detector Dog Unit and Use of Force officers also supported the operation.
Acting Commander ABF Operations North Budhy Tanddo said the result highlighted how strong partnerships can disrupt and dismantle criminal syndicates involved in the importation of border-controlled drugs.
“This was a complex investigation and the ABF works tirelessly with its partners both here in Australia and internationally to ensure illicit drugs don’t reach our communities,” A/g Commander Tanddo said.
“This was clearly a highly coordinated syndicate who have gone to extreme efforts to import and manufacture illegal drugs.
“This is another great result, and we will continue to work closely with our partners to detect and disrupt criminal efforts to circumvent our border controls.”
Queensland Police Service, Northern Territory Police, and New South Wales Police Force members also provided their expertise and support during the operation.
Investigations continue.
