Massive Drug Bust Ends Dramatic Manhunt in Perth
AFP officers, backed by WA Police, hauled in a 45-year-old man on 9 March 2023 after a nail-biting chase across Perth’s north-eastern suburbs. The manhunt kicked off in February and finally ended at a Henley Brook property.
Suburban Chase and Desperate Escape
The AFP tracked the suspect to Henley Brook, but he bolted as soon as officers arrived. Police allege he damaged his own car trying to get away, then jumped into a waiting vehicle driven by an accomplice. He later fled on foot through Bennett Springs before cops caught him.
False Numberplates and Drug Gear Found
Searching the Henley Brook property, officers uncovered equipment for making fake numberplates and several forged plates stored in a shed the man had been using. The 45-year-old appeared in Perth Magistrates Court on 10 March charged with importing a commercial quantity of a border-controlled drug – an offence punishable by life in prison.
Operation Ayr: Ocean Cocaine Sting Unravels
- The bust is part of Operation Ayr, launched after three men rescued from the ocean near Albany gave suspicious stories.
- Days later, bags of cocaine washed ashore near Denmark, with a flipped boat off Peaceful Bay found loaded with eight packages, each weighing around 40kg.
- Police believe the drugs were dropped and collected from the ocean.
- A 36-year-old man was arrested in rural Darwin in February linked to the case.
- Investigators are still hunting Mate Stipinovich, 49, suspected of involvement, and urge him to contact police immediately.
“Last night’s arrest shows we are working tirelessly to track down anyone involved in this drug importation,” AFP Inspector Chris Colley said.
“There is nowhere in the world to hide. We urge anyone with info on Mr Stipinovich’s location to call us. Assisting him could lead to charges.”
“This seizure stopped more than $190 million hitting criminal hands, saving our communities from drug-fueled crime, health issues, and lost productivity.”
“The AFP and partners will keep hunting these criminals on home turf and offshore to protect Australia.”
Police Appeal: Help Nab Third Suspect
The AFP is calling on the public to provide information that could lead to the capture of the third man believed to have collected the cocaine from the ocean in February 2023.
Anyone with details can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, AFP Investigations Team at (02) 5126 9979, or email [email protected].
