Eighth Suspect Apprehended at Sydney Airport in Major Drug Operation
A significant police operation targeting an alleged large-scale drug syndicate in the Illawarra region has led to the arrest of an eighth individual, this time at Sydney Airport. The 22-year-old man was taken into custody by authorities on Sunday morning, February 8, marking the latest development in an ongoing investigation that has already seen seven others charged.
Coordinated Raids Uncover Substantial Illicit Haul
The arrest follows a series of nine simultaneous search warrants executed on Thursday, January 22, across multiple Illawarra locations including Farmborough Heights, Albion Park, Albion Park Rail, Primbee, and Warilla. During these coordinated operations, law enforcement officers made substantial seizures that highlight the scale of the alleged criminal network.
Police reportedly confiscated 1.18 kilograms of cocaine with an estimated street value of $390,000, along with 2.12 kilograms of cannabis valued at approximately $53,000. The operation also yielded significant additional evidence including sixteen registered firearms, two unregistered firearms, nearly $99,000 in cash, four knuckle dusters, fifteen vials of anabolic steroids, 223 packets of cigarettes, and various ammunition.
Detailed Evidence Collection During Property Searches
During a particularly revealing search at a Farmborough Road property in Farmborough Heights, investigators allegedly discovered not only cocaine and cash but also a notebook that police will present in court as an alleged drug ledger. This documentation could prove crucial in establishing the operational patterns and financial transactions of the suspected syndicate.
The extensive police operation involved multiple specialized units including the Raptor Squad, Southern Operation Support Group, Lake Illawarra and South Coast officers, and the Police Dog Unit, demonstrating the coordinated approach to dismantling the alleged network.
Previous Arrests and Ongoing Legal Proceedings
Prior to the airport arrest, seven individuals had already been taken into custody in connection with the same investigation. On the day of the initial raids, five men aged 47, 48, 28, 58, and 69, along with a 42-year-old woman, were arrested and collectively charged with thirty-three offences related to alleged drug and firearms supply.
A week later, on January 29, a 35-year-old man was arrested and charged with three offences including drug supply, possession, and dealing with the proceeds of crime. He remains before the courts as legal proceedings continue.
Formal Investigation and Bail Refusal
The recent airport arrestee has been charged with supply of a prohibited drug and recklessly dealing with the proceeds of crime. He was refused bail and is scheduled to appear in Bail Division Court on Monday, October 9. This development comes as part of Strike Force Yetna, established by Lake Illawarra Police District detectives in October 2025 specifically to investigate the alleged supply of prohibited drugs by criminal networks operating within the Illawarra region.
Police have confirmed that investigations remain ongoing, suggesting that further developments in this case may yet emerge as authorities continue to pursue all leads connected to the alleged syndicate's operations.
