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Australian authorities have announced their largest cocaine seizure in history, intercepting over 2 tonnes worth hundreds of millions of dollars.

What’s the deal: According to Australian authorities, the cocaine bust unfolded after months of intelligence-led investigations tracking a transnational crime syndicate linked to the Comanchero Outlaw Motorcycle Gang. The operation culminated when a fishing boat, used to retrieve drugs from a “mothership” in international waters, broke down roughly 10 miles off the coast of Queensland. Police took their opportunity, boarding the stranded vessel and arresting two men at sea, while 11 others, including two juveniles, were apprehended onshore. A total of 2.34 tonnes of cocaine, packaged in 1 kilo blocks and branded with distinct markings, was confiscated. Police have valued the seizure at $494 million, marking the biggest in Australia’s history.

In a statement, Australian Federal Police Commander Stephen Jay said, “Investigations into the origin of the drugs remain ongoing and we will work with our international and domestic law enforcement partners to identify the criminal syndicates and anyone else involved in facilitating this alleged drug import. Let these arrests serve as a warning to those criminal syndicates plotting attempts to bring illicit substances into our country, we stand together ready to act and disrupt your criminal activities, together with our law enforcement partners.”

More on the biker gang: The Comanchero Outlaw Motorcycle Gang, initially founded in Sydney, Australia, in 1968, is one of the most notorious outlaw motorcycle clubs in the country, with a reputation for extreme violence and organized criminal activity. Over the decades, the gang has expanded its influence both nationally and internationally, establishing chapters in New Zealand and other regions. 

Known for their involvement in drug and firearm trafficking, the Comancheros have often clashed with rival gangs, resulting in violent incidents that draw significant law enforcement attention.