Three people have been charged following investigations into an alleged $100 million money-laundering syndicate operating in south west Sydney.
In February 2018, detectives from the Criminal Groups Squad established Strike Force Tippet to investigate the large-scale supply of prohibited drugs and related organised crime offences in the south western Sydney area.
As a result of inquiries, detectives executed four search warrants and arrested and charged three 22-year-old men on Friday 22 March 2019. They remain before the courts.
During this investigation, strike force detectives also identified an alleged money-laundering syndicate and commenced inquiries.
Following those inquiries, Strike Force Tippet investigators arrested two men – aged 29 and 30 – at a business in Guildford West about 9am yesterday (Thursday 11 July 2019).
Shortly after, a 30-year-old woman was arrested at a home in Merrylands West.
They were all taken to Merrylands Police Station.
Three search warrants were executed at the Merrylands West home, the Guildford West business and a second business in Sydney’s CBD.
During the searches, police seized a money counting machine, $400,000 cash, $10,000 of gold bullion electronic devices, a Ford Mustang and designer jewellery.
Investigators also seized financial documentation, which will be examined by forensic accountants.
The 30-year-old man was charged with knowingly deal with proceeds of crime intent to conceal (not less than $100 Million AUD) and knowingly direct activities of criminal group.
The 29-year-old man was charged with knowingly deal with proceeds of crime intent to conceal (not less than $100 Million AUD) and participate criminal group contribute criminal activity.
The 30-year-old woman was charged with knowingly deal with proceeds of crime intent to conceal (not less than $100 Million AUD) and participate criminal group contribute criminal activity.
Police will allege in court that the group has been operating since 2016 and laundered in excess of $100 million.
They have all been refused bail, with the men to appear at Parramatta Local Court, and the woman to appear at Fairfield Local Court later today (Friday 12 July 2019).
Investigations under Strike Force Tippet are continuing.
Anyone with information that may assist Strike Force Tippet investigators is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence.
