Perth Man Nabbed After Intense Drug Smuggling Manhunt
A 45-year-old man has finally been caught after a month-long manhunt across Perth’s north-eastern suburbs. AFP officers, backed by WA Police, took him into custody on 9 March 2023. The chase began back in February following suspicious events off the WA coast.
Charged With Importing Border-Controlled Drugs
On 10 March, the man was charged with importing a commercial quantity of a border-controlled drug, with a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. He remains in custody awaiting trial.
Operation Triggered by Fishers’ Odd Story
The drama kicked off when WA Police tipped off the AFP after rescuing three men from the ocean near Albany on 1 February. Their story about a capsized fishing trip didn’t add up.
- Six days later, a black plastic-wrapped haul of cocaine packages washed ashore near Denmark.
- On 8 February, an overturned seven-metre boat was discovered off Peaceful Bay, about 45km away.
AFP Vows to Keep Fighting Drug Crime
“The AFP and our partners will continue to target and disrupt criminals based locally and offshore who are importing drugs, to ensure we can protect the Australian community,” said an AFP spokesperson.
Got info? Contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, call AFP Investigations on (02) 5126 9979, or email [email protected].
