In a major operation, Australian Federal Police and Brazilian authorities seized 600 kilograms of cocaine hidden in shipments labeled as “fruit stands.”
The drugs were hidden within the walls and floors of the units intended for shipment to Australia. This discovery led to the arrest of two men who now face the possibility of life imprisonment if convicted of serious drug offenses.
The investigation started last November when Brazilian customs found cocaine in four shipments to Australia, hidden in fruit stands.
Authorities removed the drugs before the shipment reached Sydney by sea on February 8. On March 6, officials transported it to a North Rocks warehouse. AFP officers observed two men entering and staying inside for hours with the door closed. Police arrested them as they left the warehouse that day.
Police arrested 25-year-old Dutch national Anthony Hoppner Suarez and 49-year-old Australian Miguel Suarez. Authorities brought them to the Downing Centre Local Court, which denied their bail. They have a scheduled court appearance at the Sydney Local Court on May 15.
AFP Commander Kate Ferry said criminal groups work hard to smuggle drugs into Australia, but police strive to stay ahead. She noted this haul could have led to three million street deals of cocaine, causing major harm. Investigations continue, with authorities collaborating globally to find more suspects.