A third man has been charged with drug-related offences following an investigation into the activities of a criminal group operating in Sydney’s west.
In February 2019, detectives from the Criminal Groups Squad established Strike Force Payta to investigate the large-scale supply of prohibited drugs across Sydney.
As part of their inquiries, strike force detectives executed a search warrant at an apartment at Macquarie Park on Wednesday 24 July 2019, where they located almost 500g of cocaine in a washing machine.
On Thursday 15 August 2019, two men – aged 30 and 41 – were charged in relation to the investigation. Both men remain before the courts.
Following further inquiries, strike force detectives executed a search warrant at a home in Potts Point on Wednesday 19 February 2020.
During the search, officers seized more than 225g of cocaine allegedly concealed inside the home.
Police also seized equipment consistent with drug supply and personal identification documentation.
On Thursday 5 March 2020, officers attended Sydney International Airport and arrested a 40-year-old man and a 24-year-old woman.
The pair were taken to Mascot Police Station where the man was charged with supply prohibited drug (indictable quantity) and possess prohibited drug.
The Potts Point man was granted strict conditional bail to appear at the Downing Centre Local Court today (Monday 6 April 2020).
The woman was released pending further inquiries.
Investigations under Strike Force Payta are continuing.
Anyone with information about the importation and supply of prohibited drugs is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence.
