Australian authorities have carried out the country’s largest-ever cocaine seizure, confiscating 2.7 tonnes of the drug during a major police operation targeting an alleged international smuggling network.
The cocaine, estimated to have a street value of A$816 million (US$530 million), was discovered hidden inside an elaborate underground bunker system at a property in Londonderry, western Sydney. Police said the drugs were concealed beneath false floors in three shipping containers during a raid conducted on Friday.
Two men, aged 21 and 25, were arrested at the scene after allegedly attempting to flee from officers. They have been charged with possessing a commercial quantity of an unlawfully imported border-controlled drug and could face life imprisonment if convicted.
The operation forms part of Operation Minjiang, a long-running investigation launched in May after authorities found 40 kilograms of cocaine floating near a boat ramp in Midge Point, North Queensland. The discovery led investigators to uncover what they believe is a sophisticated drug-trafficking network linked to organized crime groups.
Police allege the cocaine was smuggled into Australia through North Queensland before being transported to Sydney for distribution. Authorities have also arrested six additional suspects in Queensland and New South Wales as part of the wider investigation.
Investigators revealed that an alleged “mother vessel” believed to be connected to the smuggling operation has been detained in the Solomon Islands, highlighting the international scope of the network.
Australian Federal Police Commander Stephen Jay said the case demonstrates the determination and sophistication of criminal organizations involved in the global drug trade.
He added that investigations remain ongoing and authorities are working closely with international law enforcement partners to identify everyone involved in the attempted drug importation.
Despite its geographic isolation, Australia remains one of the world’s most lucrative markets for cocaine traffickers due to exceptionally high street prices. According to drug-monitoring data, cocaine can sell for around A$300 per gram, making the country an attractive destination for organized crime groups.
The seizure comes amid growing concerns about drug trafficking across the Asia-Pacific region. Recent international reports have also shown that Australia and New Zealand have some of the highest cocaine consumption rates globally, fueling demand and attracting criminal syndicates seeking substantial profits.
Authorities described the seizure as a significant blow to organized crime and one of the most important anti-drug operations in Australian history. Investigations into the origin of the cocaine and the broader criminal network are continuing.