2.4 tonnes of cocaine price $677 mn, certain for Australia, intercepted in nation’s largest drug bust

An worldwide drug ring was busted in a joint operation between US and Australian authorities. 2.4 tonnes of cocaine price USD 677 million was recovered and 12 individuals have been arrested in reference to the case.

New Delhi,UPDATED: Mar 5, 2023 08:38 IST

Authorities intercepted 2.4 tonnes of cocaine aboard a vessel certain for Australia. (Representational photograph)

By India Today World Desk: An worldwide drug ring was busted following a joint operation between the US and Australian legislation enforcement, following which, 2.4 tonnes of cocaine aboard a vessel certain for Australia off the coast of South America was intercepted. Reuters reported that the cocaine was linked to a Mexican drug cartel and had a avenue worth of round $677 million.

The quantity was equal to half of Australia’s estimated annual consumption, making the operation one of many largest drug busts that Australian police have been concerned in.

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Western Australian police launched a press release on Saturday and introduced that 12 suspects have been arrested and charged in reference to the case. This was the primary time that the authorities revealed particulars of the operation that started in November 2022 with the interception of the vessel.

According to the police, the cargo certain for Australia was substituted with identically packed faux cocaine. Three individuals who have been suspected to be members of the “Australian arm of a drug syndicate” have been arrested with 1.2 tonnes of faux cocaine on December 30 for allegedly making three journeys to gather the packages.

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Nine others have been arrested by January 13. A 39-year-old male US citizen was among the many 12 charged, mentioned police.

Western Australia police commissioner Col Blanch applauded the success of “Operation Beech” and mentioned it despatched a message to worldwide drug traffickers that their medication usually are not welcome.

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Edited By:

chingkheinganbi mayengbam

Published On:

Mar 5, 2023