$14 Million Cocaine Syndicate Busted: NSW Police Uncover Drug Operation Hidden in Timber
NSW Police have dismantled a sophisticated interstate drug syndicate allegedly responsible for supplying $14 million worth of cocaine, with multiple arrests made across New South Wales and Queensland. The operation, dubbed Strike Force Capulin, began in August of last year following intelligence reports of large-scale drug trafficking.
Cocaine Concealed in Timber Planks
The investigation commenced after authorities received information regarding 100 kilograms of cocaine purportedly hidden within four tonnes of timber planks. Detectives quickly focused on tracing the origin and destination of the shipment, uncovering a complex network spanning multiple states. Evidence gathered suggests a novel method of concealment, with the drugs embedded directly into the wood.
Key Arrests and Seizures
On January 2, a 33-year-old man was apprehended in Kingsford, Sydney, allegedly in possession of 2 kilograms of cocaine and $6,800 in cash. He has been charged with drug and proceeds of crime offenses and is scheduled to reappear in court on February 26. Investigators believe the man had recently traveled from Ballina to Sydney to collect the illicit substances.
Just two days later, on January 4, a search of a vehicle at Ballina Airport yielded a significant haul: 723 grams of cocaine, 112 grams of ketamine, and nearly $400,000 in cash were discovered in a duffle bag. A subsequent search of a mobile phone recovered from the scene revealed images and videos purportedly depicting 100 kilograms of cocaine concealed within wooden planks.
Expanding Investigation to Queensland
The investigation expanded into Queensland, revealing that the timber planks were being stored in sheds located on the Gold Coast and in Lismore. On January 22, a coordinated operation involving detectives from both NSW and Queensland Police resulted in the seizure of six tonnes of wooden planks from a property in Lismore.
Simultaneously, a search warrant was executed in Molendinar, Gold Coast, where officers uncovered a clandestine extraction lab and additional wooden planks. Four men – aged 42, 45, 46, and 55 – were arrested and charged with producing cocaine and possessing drug-processing equipment.
High-Level Syndicate Member Arrested
The latest arrest occurred on January 23 at a home in Ocean Shores, north of Byron Bay. A 33-year-old man was taken into custody and charged with commercial drug supply and directing a criminal group. He was denied bail and is expected to appear in court today.
The ongoing investigation continues to focus on identifying the source of the timber and dismantling the remaining elements of the syndicate. Authorities are confident that Strike Force Capulin has dealt a significant blow to the interstate drug trade.
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