Alleged Drug Ring Busted in Maroubra Car Park Sting

Maroubra car park drug seizure
Photo Credit: AustralianFederalPolice

A late-night operation in a Maroubra public car park led to the arrest of two men allegedly involved in a multi-million dollar international drug smuggling ring, with police seizing over 140 kilograms of illegal substances.



The arrests took place in March 2024 as part of Operation Drake, an ongoing investigation by the Australian Federal Police (AFP) that began in December 2022. The operation targeted a criminal syndicate suspected of importing large quantities of cocaine into Australia.

The Sting Operation

AFP officers intercepted a white van in a bulk cargo shipment bound for Australia. They allegedly discovered 30 kilograms of ketamine, valued at $7.35 million, hidden under the seats. The police replaced the drugs with a harmless substance and allowed the van to be placed in the Maroubra car park.

A 23-year-old man from Angus, in Sydney’s north-west, approached the van, allegedly intending to collect the drugs. Police arrested him on the spot, finding three mobile phones in his vehicle.

The Alleged Mastermind

Simultaneously, police raided a home in Mascot, arresting a 39-year-old man believed to be the operation’s ringleader. Officers seized several mobile phones, including at least one encrypted device, and $37,000 in cash.

The 39-year-old is accused of orchestrating three separate cocaine importation attempts:

– 50 kilograms hidden in refrigerated shipping containers via New Zealand
– 50 kilograms concealed in a shipment of plastic furniture from South America
– 111 kilograms stashed in duffel bags inside a container at Port Melbourne

The total street value of the cocaine from these three seizures is estimated at $68.5 million.

Maroubra car park drug seizure
Photo Credit: Australian Federal Police

Legal Proceedings

Both men appeared in Downing Centre Local Court. The 39-year-old was charged with three counts of attempting to import a commercial quantity of a border-controlled drug and one count of possessing a commercial quantity of a border-controlled drug. He did not apply for bail.

The 23-year-old faces one count of attempting to possess a commercial quantity of a border-controlled drug. He was granted bail and will return to court on 4 September 2024 along with his co-accused.

Impact on the Community

AFP Commander Kate Ferry stated that these investigations demonstrate the police’s commitment to making Australia hostile to organised crime. Detective Chief Superintendent Jason Weinstein of the NSW Police State Crime Command added that the seizures highlight both police capabilities and the scale of the drug problem.

The successful operation underscores the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat drug trafficking and protect local communities from the harmful effects of illegal substances.



For free and confidential advice about alcohol and other drug treatment services, call the National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline on 1800 250 015. Access free 24/7 drug and alcohol counselling online. For information about drug and alcohol addiction treatment or support, go to the Turning Point website.

Published 14-July-2024

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