Why Did Australian Police Arrest 18 Individuals After Seizing Nearly 270 kg of Illicit Drugs?
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Synopsis
In a significant crackdown, Australian police have arrested 18 individuals linked to an organized crime syndicate, seizing nearly 270 kg of illicit drugs worth an estimated $37.5 million. The operation highlights increasing efforts to combat drug trafficking across the nation.
Key Takeaways
- 18 arrests made in a major drug operation.
- 270 kg of illicit drugs seized, valued at 60 million AUD.
- Drugs were concealed in shipments of shoes.
- Joint effort by NSW, WA, and AFP.
- Operation aimed at disrupting organized crime syndicates.
Sydney, Nov 4 (NationPress) Australian police apprehended 18 individuals following the confiscation of nearly 270 kg of illegal drugs during a probe into an organized crime group that was operating nationwide.
The law enforcement agencies from New South Wales (NSW) and Western Australia (WA), alongside the Australian Federal Police (AFP), announced on Tuesday that these arrests were carried out by a collaborative task force formed earlier in 2025 to scrutinize the extensive distribution of illegal narcotics by an organized syndicate.
Detectives from the strike force executed 30 search warrants across NSW and WA between May and October, leading to the discovery and confiscation of 150 kg of pseudoephedrine, 95 kg of methamphetamine, 21 kg of ketamine, 2 kg of cocaine, 14 firearms, and approximately 2.4 million Australian dollars (around $1.5 million) in cash along with lab equipment.
A total of 18 arrests were made, with 11 suspects located in WA, who are facing various charges related to the import and distribution of illegal drugs and involvement in a criminal organization.
It is alleged in court that the syndicate smuggled the drugs by sea, hiding them within shipments of shoes.
Authorities indicated that these narcotics were subsequently traded across state lines via postal services and by drug mules traveling on flights, as reported by Xinhua.
The estimated total value of the seized drugs stands at 60 million Australian dollars (around $37.5 million).
Previously, on October 19, police in NSW stated that over 5 kg of methylamphetamine and nearly 11 kg of cocaine—worth an estimated combined street value exceeding 6.3 million Australian dollars (about $4.09 million)—had been confiscated in the state's southwest.
Officers, while patrolling the Hay area, stopped a black vehicle on the Sturt Highway.
Following a positive roadside drug test for the 30-year-old male driver, officers searched him and uncovered cocaine and cash.
A search of the vehicle resulted in the seizure of drugs, over 130,000 Australian dollars in cash, and two mobile phones.
The driver was arrested and charged with seven offenses.
Point of View
It's imperative to recognize the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in combating organized crime. This recent operation reflects the commitment of Australian authorities to tackle drug trafficking and ensure public safety. Such efforts are vital to maintaining community welfare and trust in our institutions.
NationPress
07/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What drugs were seized by Australian police?
The drugs confiscated included 150 kg of pseudoephedrine, 95 kg of methamphetamine, 21 kg of ketamine, and 2 kg of cocaine, along with firearms and cash.
How many people were arrested in this operation?
A total of 18 individuals were arrested in connection with the investigation into the organized crime syndicate.
What is the estimated value of the seized drugs?
The combined estimated value of the seized drugs is approximately 60 million Australian dollars, equivalent to about 37.5 million dollars.
How were the drugs transported?
The drugs were allegedly imported by sea, concealed in shipments of shoes, and later distributed across state borders.
What charges are the arrested individuals facing?
The arrested individuals are facing various charges, including offenses related to the import and supply of illicit drugs and participation in a criminal organization.
