The AFP has charged a Western Sydney man, 29, with allegedly importing 281kg of liquid methamphetamine that was hidden inside olive oil.
The man is expected to face the Parramatta Local Court today (Tuesday, 22 November), charged with importing and attempting to possess a commercial quantity of an unlawfully imported border controlled drug, namely methamphetamine, contrary to section 307.1 of the Criminal Code 1995 (Cth).
The AFP-led National Anti-Gangs Squad (NAGS) located and seized the methamphetamine on 30 July, 2022, after it was discovered on a truck in the Sydney suburb of Fairfield.
The estimated wholesale value of the methamphetamine is approximately $39 million.
The investigation into the illicit drug, known as Operation Bendigo, allegedly linked the man to the shipment.
The AFP executed a search warrant at the man’s Granville home on 21 September, 2022, and seized a number of phones and a computer for further examination.
The AFP believe the man is linked to a transnational organised crime group involved in the facilitation of drug importations with Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs (OMCGs).
National Anti-Gangs Squad Superintendent Anthony Conway said the outcome was another strong example of the NAGS’ commitment to disrupting criminal groups who bring harm to our communities through the importation and supply of illicit drugs.
“The AFP working together with our state and territory partner agencies will continue to take deliberate action to best protect Australians from organised crime groups including OMCGs.” Supt Conway said.
“Criminals should realise it is inevitable they will be identified, arrested and prosecuted. It should also remind people who want to join or associate with OMCGs that ultimately, joining a gang will be a decision they will regret for life.”
The NAGS was established in 2014 as a multi-agency law enforcement taskforce targeting organised criminal syndicates, including those involving members of OMCGs. NAGS comprises of members from the AFP and State and Territory Police forces, as well as members from the Australian Taxation Office.
