BY IAN CROUCH and JESSICA ROUSE
Detectives and forensic officers are working to get a massive haul of cocaine off a yacht in Lake Macquarie.
At least half a tonne of cocaine bound for Australia from Tahiti was intercepted on a yacht at Toronto yesterday.
A multi-agency investigation comprising officers from the NSW Police Force, Federal Police, the Organised Crime Squad, Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission and the Australian Border Force began in August, targeting the importation of cocaine by private vessels.
As a result of inquiries, officers commenced a joint resolution operation in Lake Macquarie on Wednesday, intercepting a yacht at Toronto.
It’s alleged the massive drug haul was found concealed in the hull of the vessel.
The drugs have an estimated street value of $245 million.
Three men, a 47, 63 and a 68-year-old were arrested and charged over the alleged importation – they’ve been formally refused bail in Newcastle Local Court today.
|
|
The Yacht Which Police Alleged Was Being Used To Import To Import Cocaine To Australia | Picture: Supplied |
|
One Of Three People Arrested Accused Of Importing Half A Tonne Of Cocaine Picture: Supplied |