14 people were arrested today (27th May 2016), including 6 Malaysians and 8 Chinese citizens, in a multi-million dollar Australian meth bust.
Police are calling the importation of approximately 200 kilograms (440.92 lb) of methamphetamine the 2nd largest capture in the state’s history, trailing behind last year’s 320kg haul in September. The latest seizure reportedly has a street value of roughly A$200 million (RM586.7 million).
The crime task force first took notice of a ship carrying 8 Chinese nationals after they began acting suspiciously. According to Reuters, their detainment earlier this month led to the arrest of the Malaysian culprits and the seizure of 150kg and 50kg of meth in 2 separate locations (East Cannington and Embleton).
“As a result of the investigations and successful search warrants, 6 Malaysian nationals, all males aged between 24 and 54 years old, were charged,” said Detective Constable Gary Dreiberg. He added that the “8 Chinese nationals, all males aged between 37 and 56 years old, who were aboard the vessel” have also been charged in connection to the drug arrest.
Deputy Commissioner Dreibergs refused to comment on how long the Australian police force suspected the operation had been running or if there was connection between this recent capture and last year’s record of 320kg meth haul.
“These groups overseas, organised crime organisations, have been operating for many many years. In terms of their involvement in Western Australia, I’m not really privy to discuss that,” he added.
Sources: Free Malaysia Today, News JS.
