Three men have been jailed over an illegal operation involving importing packages from Serbia containing cocaine for distribution across Sydney. Source: Benh LIEU SONG
Over the weekend, three Sydney men were jailed for a total of 15 years for their roles in importing packages from Serbia, which contained cocaine weighing about 5kg in total.
The packages were addressed to fake entities, and were collected by a Pemulwuy man, 37, and a West Hoxton man, 45, who both worked for courier services. The parcels were then passed to a Homebush man, 54, for distribution through Sydney.
The investigation began in September 2020, after Australian Federal Police (AFP) investigators linked the importations between the three men. The Homebush man was arrested in December 2020, after the Pemulwuy man gave him a parcel, which was later found containing roughly 649g of cocaine.
The Homebush man’s vehicle and residence were searched by the AFP, who uncovered a another 1.6kg of cocaine, more than $7,000 cash, and about 100 empty parcels with false addresses, containing traces of white powder.
Police then searched the Pemulwuy man’s home, seizing roughly $24,000 in cash, drug paraphernalia, and numerous bags with traces of white powder.
Further inquiries linked the West Hoxton man to the two men arrested, and investigators searching his vehicle and residence later than month. Over $36,000 cash and several more parcels with white powder residue were discovered.
All three men pleaded guilty to their respective charges.
AFP Superintendent Morgen Blunden said the operation showed the continuing commitment of the AFP to protect Australian communities and keep illegal drugs off the streets.
“This outcome should serve as a clear warning to criminals operating at all levels of the supply chain. If you attempt to import illicit substances to our shores, you will be caught,” said Superintendent Blunden.
Earlier this month, the AFP discovered 35kg of heroin disguised as Optimus Prime.
If you or a loved one are concerned about drug use, the following services provide people with access to support and information:
- 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 at counsellingonline.org.au
- For information about drug and alcohol addiction treatment or support, go to turningpoint.org.au
The AFP’s full statement can be read here.
