An alleged transnational organised crime syndicate accused of smuggling drugs into Australia has been dismantled, with 11 suspects arrested in Spain following a global police investigation.
Spanish authorities, including the Guardia Civil and Mossos d’Esquadra (Catalonian Police), executed search warrants at nine locations in Barcelona and Ibiza on 11 December 2024, targeting senior members of the syndicate. The raids, supported by the Australian Federal Police (AFP), uncovered methamphetamine, hashish, pink cocaine, and cocaine, along with precision scales, vacuum sealers, cash, and other evidence.
The international operation began after AFP intelligence uncovered attempts to smuggle ketamine into Australia via air mail, concealed inside stuffed Christmas toys and household ornaments. The plot was initially discovered by Australian Border Force (ABF) officers in Perth on Christmas Day 2023, when they intercepted 1.5kg of ketamine hidden in a package from Spain.
AFP’s Operation Helidon led to the arrest and conviction of a 27-year-old Italian man in Western Australia, who was sentenced to three years’ imprisonment in October 2024 for attempting to traffic controlled drugs.
Further investigations revealed encrypted communications linking the drug shipments to a 39-year-old Italian national in Spain. AFP inquiries uncovered an additional 15kg of ketamine in eight air mail consignments across Australia. Forensic evidence and intelligence were shared with Spanish authorities, aiding their efforts to dismantle the syndicate.
AFP Assistant Commissioner Pryce Scanlan commended the international collaboration, saying the operation highlights the importance of law enforcement agencies working together across borders.
“Drug trafficking syndicates cause harm in every country they operate in, impacting national security, financial systems, and contributing to issues such as family violence and pressure on hospitals,” Assistant Commissioner Scanlan said.
“Criminals are not constrained by international borders, and that’s why our partnerships are vital for keeping Australians safe at home.”
The AFP’s work with Spain’s Guardia Civil underscores the ongoing battle against organised crime and the dangers of illicit drug use, which can cause devastating health effects and societal harm.
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