The Australian Federal Police secured the largest cocaine haul in the nation's history, arresting 11 individuals linked to a major drug syndicate after a boat malfunctioned off Queensland's coast.
Massive Cocaine Seizure off Queensland Coast: 2.3 Tonnes Confiscated
Massive Cocaine Seizure off Queensland Coast: 2.3 Tonnes Confiscated
Australian Federal Police make historic drug bust with $500 million worth of cocaine seized from downed vessel.
In an unprecedented operation, Australian Federal Police (AFP) announced the seizure of 2.3 tonnes of cocaine from a stricken boat approximately 18 kilometers off the Queensland coast. This substantial drug bust, estimated at A$760 million (around $490 million), is recorded as the largest cocaine confiscation in Australia’s history.
The authorities apprehended 11 individuals, including the boat's crew and other conspirators awaiting the shipment's arrival. Notably, one of the arrested men has alleged ties to the Comanchero outlaw motorcycle club, particularly its Brisbane chapter, which is infamous for drug-related crimes and violence.
The arrests occurred during a broader investigation dubbed Operation Tyrrendor, launched last month after intelligence was uncovered regarding the Comanchero gang's involvement in an organization planning to import illegal narcotics into Australia. This operation follows a recent interception by the Colombian navy of a semi-submersible vessel linked to cocaine trafficking aimed at Australia.
The AFP coordinated efforts with the Queensland Police Service (QPS) and the Australian Border Force (ABF) to monitor a fishing boat acquired by a 35-year-old man, which was utilized to transport cocaine from a mothership to the Queensland shore. The vessel encountered mechanical difficulties on Saturday night, leading to its interception.
Upon arrest, authorities discovered 51 bales of cocaine, each weighing 40 kilogrammes — altogether amounting to a staggering 2.34 tonnes. The coordinated arrests included two individuals on the boat, two waiting at the shore, three at a local fast-food establishment, and an additional five captured during a traffic stop. The final apprehension occurred in Brisbane following the execution of a search warrant.
All 11 men and two juveniles face serious charges, including conspiracy to import a significant quantity of cocaine, an offense that carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.
