2.7 tonnes of cocaine seized from underground bunker in Sydney, Australia’s largest ever haul

KATHMANDU, June 22: Australian police have seized 2.7 tonnes of cocaine from an underground bunker in western Sydney, marking the largest drug seizure in the country’s history.

The drugs were discovered at a property in Londonderry, hidden in concealed compartments beneath fake flooring inside three shipping containers. Authorities estimate the street value of the seized cocaine at around AUD 816 million.

Police arrested two men, aged 21 and 25, who allegedly attempted to flee the scene. They have been charged with possessing a commercial quantity of a border-controlled drug imported unlawfully.

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According to investigators, the cocaine was trafficked into Australia under the direction of an organised crime group, entering the country via the small town of Midge Point in northern Queensland.

The two suspects were remanded in custody after appearing in court on Saturday and could face life imprisonment if convicted.

Authorities said the Londonderry raid was part of “Operation Minjiang,” which began in May after 40 kilograms of cocaine were earlier found floating in water near a boat ramp in Midge Point.

Police noted that Australia has become an attractive market for drug trafficking networks. According to last year’s United Nations World Drug Report, cocaine use rates among Australians and New Zealanders are among the highest globally.