Australian police have thwarted a major drug trafficking operation by intercepting a shipment worth $500 million in what becomes the largest cocaine seizure in the nation’s history.
At a Glance
- Australian police seized 2.3 tons of cocaine.
- The cocaine had a street value of $494 million.
- 13 individuals, including two juveniles, were arrested.
- The drug bust was part of Operation Tyrrendor targeting the Comanchero gang.
Seizing the Largest Cocaine Haul
Australian police have seized 2.3 tons of cocaine from a broken-down boat off the coast of Queensland, authorities said on Monday. This seizure marks the largest cocaine haul ever recorded in Australia, thanks to a mechanical failure that disabled the ship. The operation underscored the diligence of law enforcement agencies and highlighted their commitment to stemming the flow of narcotics into the country.
The intercepted drugs had a staggering street value of 760 million Australian dollars, making the bust a significant hit on organized crime. The operation was a concerted effort by the Australian Federal Police, Queensland Police Service, and Australian Border Force, demonstrating the power of collaboration in regional law enforcement.
Australian police arrest 13 people and seize a record 2.3 tons of cocaine from a fishing boathttps://t.co/hd1fYbz4Su
— Grim (@Nzgrim) December 2, 2024
An Unidentified South American Source
The cocaine originated from an unidentified South American country, investigators revealed during a press conference in Brisbane. Shrouded in mystery, the shipment’s source only adds to the intrigue surrounding the drug trade’s expansive networks. Initial intelligence and ongoing investigations point towards the involvement of the Comancheros motorcycle gang, notorious for their criminal activities in the region.
The method of transporting such a sizeable cocaine cache involved a complex exchange between a mothership located in international waters and a fishing vessel beset with mechanical issues just 18 km from K’gari. Despite the mothership’s escape, this setback proved paramount in unraveling and ultimately busting the syndicate’s plot.
Australian Police Make Record Cocaine Bust https://t.co/ZzGQze1tqo
— Maritime Reporter (@ShipNews) December 2, 2024
A Wider Investigation Ensues
This operation culminated in the arrests of 13 individuals, each linked to the drug smuggling conspiracy. Among those detained were two Australian juveniles. Charges against the suspects carry the possibility of life imprisonment. Arrests were executed in various locations across water and land, showcasing the multifaceted reach of Australia’s criminal enterprises.
The bust, known as Operation Tyrrendor, targeted the Comanchero outlaw motorcycle gang. This particular gang has been under scrutiny due to its extensive involvement in drug-related violence and trafficking.
