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Cocaine bust exposes multi-layered ruthless criminal organisation

Cocaine

From Guayaquil to Birżebbuġa: Cocaine bust starts to unravel complex criminal web involving hauliers, a car dealer, port security and a ruthless hidden hand

Three men charged with drug trafficking following a cocaine bust at Malta Freeport are on the lower rungs of a multi-layered criminal organisation, MaltaToday has learnt.

The men are linked to a cocaine shipment from Guayaquil in Ecuador to Malta that was intercepted by law enforcement agents at the Birżebbuġa port on 12 November.

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CBP Officers Seize $1.1M Worth of Methamphetamine in Brownsville

Methamphetamine

U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at the Brownsville Port of Entry seized over $1.1 million worth of suspected methamphetamine on November 19, 2024. The drugs were discovered during a secondary inspection of a vehicle driven by a 21-year-old U.S. citizen at the Gateway International Bridge. Using a canine unit and advanced technology, officers found 43 packages containing 124.29 pounds of meth. The driver was arrested, and a criminal investigation by Homeland Security Investigations is underway, reinforcing the agency’s commitment to border security.

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77-Year-Old NSW Man Charged with Alleged Methamphetamine Importation in WA

Methamphetamine

A New South Wales man is expected to face Perth Magistrates Court today charged with allegedly trying to import about 3kg of methamphetamine into Australia, concealed in a backpack. The AFP arrested and charged the man, 77, on 23 October, 2024, after Australian Border Force (ABF) officers at Perth Airport allegedly found the illicit drugs when he arrived on a flight from Thailand. When ABF officers examined the man’s luggage, they allegedly detected anomalies in a laptop backpack. This included the unusual weight of what was an empty bag, a strong smell of glue and irregularities around the seams. An ABF narcotic-trained detection dog also provided a positive reaction to the backpack. Upon further inspection, ABF officers allegedly found two packages containing a white crystalline substance concealed in the backpack’s lining. They immediately alerted the AFP and forensics tests allegedly showed there was about 3kg of methamphetamine in total. The AFP charged the man with one count of importing a commercial quantity of a border controlled drug, namely methamphetamine, contrary to subsection 307.1 of the Criminal Code 1995 (Cth). He first appeared in Perth Magistrates Court on (24 October, 2024) and is expected to appear again today. The AFP, through its international network, is investigating the source of the drugs. AFP acting Superintendent Chris Colley said the AFP and ABF worked tirelessly to ensure criminal syndicates did not exploit international air travel to traffic illicit drugs into Australia. “If 3kg of methamphetamine had reached the community, it could have facilitated at least 30,000 street deals of 0.1g, worth an estimated $2,775,000*,” a/Supt Colley said. “Across Australia, there were 10,100 methamphetamine-related hospitalisations in 2021-2022 – which equates to more than 27 every day, on average. This has an impact on the health system that can negatively affect the entire community**. “Methamphetamine and other illicit drugs cause immense health, social and financial harms, which is why the AFP and our partners work tirelessly to stop these substances from reaching Australia.” ABF acting Superintendent John Sweet said officers were highly adept at identifying suspicious activity at the airport, using sophisticated detection methods combined with good old fashioned officer intuition. “This detection should serve as a warning to all travellers, regardless of age, who wish to run the gauntlet and attempt to bypass our border controls – we will stop you in your tracks and together with our law enforcement partners we will ensure you find yourself before the courts,” a/Supt Sweet said. 22 November 2024 Source: AFP

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Man Charged, Over one tonne of 1,4-Butanediol seized

Methamphetamine

Detectives from the Clandestine Laboratory Squad have charged a man and seized over one tonne of 1,4-Butanediol, steroids and prescription medication, steroid manufacturing equipment and a dismantled clandestine laboratory as part of an investigation into the manufacture and trafficking of methylamphetamine. Four search warrants were executed on Wednesday (20 November) at a factory in Moorabbin, two storage sheds in Springvale and a factory in Clayton. 370kg of 1,4-Butanediol and large quantities of steroids and prescription medication were seized from the storage facility. Approximately 730kg of 1-4-Butanediol, 20 litres of tartaric acid (used in the purification of methylamphetamines) and a large sophisticated packed up clandestine laboratory were seized from the Clayton address. A 36-year-old Mordialloc man was intercepted by police around 3.30pm yesterday (Thursday, 21 November). A search of his car located 10kg of as yet unidentified powder and stolen registration plates. A further two search warrants were executed at a residential address in Mordialloc and a business premises in Highett. Additional steroids and clandestine laboratory equipment were seized from the Mordialloc property. The man was subsequently charged with traffick large commercial quantity 1,4-Butanediol, possess substance, material document/equipment for trafficking, possess a prescribed pre-cursor (sodium borohydride, methylamphetmine hydrochloride and iodine). He was remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 13 January. The total quantity of 1-4-Butanediol seized is equivalent to 100,000 potentially lethal doses of the drug. When ingested, 1,4-Butanediol is metabolised similarly to GHB, but it is an industrial solvent and used in the manufacture of various plastics and polymers. The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information on illicit drug activity is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au Quotes attributable to Detective Acting Inspector Mark Newlan, Clandestine Laboratory Squad: “While there are legitimate uses for 1,4-Butanediol as an industrial solvent – or cleaning product – it is an incredibly dangerous product to consume which can have fatal consequences. “Criminal syndicates care only for the profits this dangerous substance can make them – substituting it for GHB given the cheaper price. Overwhelmingly what users believe is GHB is 1,4-Butanediol. “The drug can be unpredictable and the difference between survival and a fatal overdose can be very small. There is absolutely no safe amount to ingest — that’s why we’re committed to removing it from unintended hands.” 22 November 2024 Source: Victoria Police

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Inside “Lord Of Drugs” Haji Salim’s Global Narcotics Network

Organized Crime

Haji Salim, often referred to as the “Lord of Drugs,” is a name synonymous with global narcotics trafficking. Operating primarily from Pakistan, Salim heads a sprawling criminal network that smuggles substantial quantities of heroin, methamphetamine, and other illicit substances into India and other regions. His activities have placed him at the center of India’s anti-drug efforts, particularly through the ambitious Operation Sagar Manthan. Salim’s criminal empire first came to light in 2015 when authorities linked him to a major drug seizure in Kerala. Over the years, his name has surfaced repeatedly in connection with significant narcotics busts, solidifying his reputation as a drug kingpin. His close association with fugitive gangster Dawood Ibrahim and alleged ties to Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) provide him with a layer of protection that has allowed his operations to flourish. Based in Balochistan, Salim’s strategic location offers access to key sea routes, making it an ideal base for trafficking. In response to the escalating threat posed by Salim’s operations, the Indian government launched Operation Sagar Manthan, a collaborative initiative involving the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard, and Gujarat Police’s Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS). The operation focuses on intercepting maritime drug shipments, a method Salim has perfected over the years. So far, the operation has resulted in the seizure of more than 3,400 kilograms of narcotics and the arrest of multiple suspects, including nationals from Iran and Pakistan. These achievements underscore the operation’s effectiveness in disrupting Salim’s supply chains. Salim’s syndicate employs a range of sophisticated tactics to evade detection. His consignments are often marked with coded labels like “777,” “555,” and “flying horse.” Drugs are typically transported via sea routes, starting from Iran and passing through countries such as Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, and Malaysia before reaching Indian shores in states like Gujarat and Kerala. This well-oiled trafficking network accounts for an estimated 70% of the narcotics smuggled across India’s seas. The global reach of Salim’s operations extends to regions like Mauritius, New Zealand, the United States, and Afghanistan. His recruitment strategy exploits unemployed youth from Balochistan, drawing them into the drug trade. The ISI’s alleged support bolsters his operations, making him a formidable adversary for law enforcement agencies. Despite his widespread influence, authorities have limited information about Salim’s personal life. An old photograph remains the only tangible evidence of his identity. The success of operations like Sagar Manthan demonstrates India’s commitment to combating drug trafficking. A recent breakthrough involved the interception of 700 kilograms of methamphetamine off the Gujarat coast. Acting on intelligence about an unregistered vessel, Indian authorities launched a coordinated operation that resulted in the arrest of eight Iranian nationals. Other operations have led to the capture of Pakistani nationals, further unraveling Salim’s extensive drug pipeline. Dismantling Salim’s network is fraught with challenges. The ISI’s support shields his activities, while his expertise in maritime trafficking complicates interception efforts. Limited intelligence about his personal life adds another layer of difficulty. Despite these obstacles, the NCB and international law enforcement agencies remain committed to breaking his empire. Enhanced intelligence-sharing, technological advancements in surveillance, and coordinated global efforts are crucial in this fight. Salim’s operations are a stark reminder of the far-reaching impact of organized crime on global security and public health. Efforts to dismantle his network represent more than a victory against one individual; they signify a broader commitment to combating the transnational drug trade. By targeting key figures like Salim, law enforcement agencies can disrupt the supply chains that fuel addiction and violence worldwide. 17 November 2024

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High-Ranking Mexican Cartel Leader Arrested on Charges of International Drug Trafficking

Drug Cartels

A federal court in the Central District of California unsealed a criminal complaint yesterday charging Cristian Fernando Gutierrez-Ochoa — a high-ranking member of the Cártel de Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG) and the son-in-law of the CJNG’s leader, Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as El Mencho — with international drug trafficking and money laundering offenses. Gutierrez-Ochoa was arrested in Riverside, California, on Nov. 19. “The Jalisco Cartel — one of the world’s most violent and prolific drug trafficking organizations — is weaker today because of the tenacious efforts of law enforcement to track down and arrest a cartel leader who allegedly faked his own death and assumed a false identity to evade justice and live a life of luxury in California,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco. “As these charges allege, Gutierrez-Ochoa directed the trafficking of lethal narcotics, causing untold destruction in our communities. To those seeking to harm Americans and to profit from their pain, this arrest should serve as a reminder — we will find you and bring you to justice.” “Over the last decade, Cristian Gutierrez-Ochoa, a close associate of CJNG’s top leader, allegedly directed the importation of tons of methamphetamine and cocaine into the United States and engaged in violence to aid the cartel’s criminal activities,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “The Criminal Division is committed to disrupting and dismantling Mexican drug trafficking organizations. Tuesday’s arrest sends a powerful message to cartel leadership: we will work tirelessly with our domestic and international law enforcement partners to hold them accountable.” “Defeating the two cartels responsible for the deadly drug crisis in the United States is the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)’s top operational priority, and with the arrest of Cristian Fernando Gutierrez-Ochoa, we are much closer,” said DEA Administrator Anne Milgram. “We allege that Gutierrez-Ochoa, a high-ranking member of the CJNG and the son-in-law of El Mencho, conspired to import thousands of kilograms of cocaine and methamphetamine into the United States on behalf of the Jalisco Cartel. The Jalisco Cartel is responsible for unprecedented violence in Mexico and helping to fuel the deadly drug crisis in the United States. The DEA is relentlessly committed to defeating the Jalisco Cartel, and we will exhaust every tool in the justice system to fight back, to save American lives, and to bring this cartel to justice.” According to court documents, Gutierrez-Ochoa, 37, is alleged to have started working for the CJNG, one of the most violent drug cartels in Mexico, in around 2014, and to have personally coordinated the transportation and distribution of approximately 40,000 kilograms of methamphetamine and approximately 2,000 kilograms of cocaine in Mexico, all destined for the United States. Gutierrez-Ochoa allegedly furthered CJNG’s drug trafficking and money laundering activities through violence. In around November 2021, Gutierrez-Ochoa allegedly kidnapped two members of the Mexican Navy in an attempt to secure the release of El Mencho’s wife, who had been arrested by Mexican authorities. After being sought by Mexican authorities, Gutierrez-Ochoa allegedly fled into the United States, assumed a fictitious identity, and resided in a luxury residence in Riverside, California, purchased by CJNG’s money laundering operatives with drug trafficking proceeds. According to court documents, El Mencho may have assisted Gutierrez-Ochoa in his scheme to fake his own death by telling associates that El Mencho murdered Gutierrez-Ochoa for lying. This helped Gutierrez-Ochoa sneak into the United States to be with El Mencho’s daughter. The Justice Department returned a superseding indictment against El Mencho in April 2022, charging him with leading a continuing criminal enterprise to manufacture and distribute fentanyl for importation into the United States. The U.S. Department of State is offering a reward of up to $10 million for information leading to his arrest and/or conviction. El Mencho remains a fugitive. Gutierrez-Ochoa is charged with conspiracy to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine and 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, knowing, intending, and having reasonable cause to believe that those controlled substances would be unlawfully imported into the United States. Gutierrez-Ochoa is also charged with conspiracy to launder CJNG’s drug trafficking proceeds. If convicted, he faces a mandatory minimum penalty of ten years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison on the drug distribution conspiracy charge, and a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison on the money laundering conspiracy charge. A federal district court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. 21 November 2024 Source: Justice Dept

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INTERPOL-led coalition arrests 100 mafia suspects

Organized Crime

GLASGOW, United Kingdom: An international police coalition coordinated by INTERPOL has led to the arrest of more than 100 key ‘Ndrangheta members since the project’s launch in 2020. The 100th and 101st arrests occurred during a coordinated operation last month supported by INTERPOL in Germany and Italy. German authorities raided three houses, seizing a large cache of information, including cloud data. The police also found significant amounts of cash, luxury watches and jewelry. The Italian authorities acted in parallel, arresting two suspects, seizing multiple properties and vehicles, and freezing bank accounts. A Calabrian businessman with alleged links to two ‘Ndrangheta clans was arrested in Bologna while a second suspect was arrested the same day in the city of Formia. The operation took place within the framework of an investigation led by Italy’s Guardia di Finanza in Bologna. INTERPOL Secretary General Jürgen Stock said: “The ‘Ndrangheta are a global scourge and demonstrate the unprecedented threat posed by transnational organized crime groups. Yet the success of the I-CAN project makes clear that even the most powerful mafias are not out of reach when law enforcement cooperates across borders.” Giampiero Ianni, Brigadier General of the Guardia di Finanza, said: “I-CAN’s 101 arrests show there is no escape for members of the ‘Ndrangheta. With the support of INTERPOL, we have been able to investigate this insidious organization, mapping its international development and working together with prosecutors to apprehend its fugitives.” The ‘Ndrangheta is often considered one of the most extensive and powerful criminal organizations in the world. Its roots are in the Italian region of Calabria but it has now expanded to more than 40 countries worldwide and continues to grow at a steady rate. The insidious spread of mafia-type crime poses an urgent threat to international peace and security, due to its penetration of political and economic environments and the widespread corruption associated with it. Funded by the Italian Department of Public Security, INTERPOL’s I-CAN project raises global awareness and understanding about the ‘Ndrangheta and their modus operandi, sharing police information to dismantle their networks and operations and arrest wanted suspects. 7 November 2024 Source: Interpol  

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Fentanyl shaped like Lego, toys in Campbell River drug bust.

Fentanyl

RCMP in B.C. is warning about a new way that drugs are being disguised in the province. On Sept. 25, the Campbell River Street Crime Unit with assistance from the Major Crime Unit, Community Response Unit, Community Policing Unit, General Duty and First Nations policing searched three locations. Two searches were conducted in the 900 block of Island Highway South and another in the 600 block of Nursery Road. Police seized more than 1.6 kilograms of fentanyl with some that was being diluted, dyed, flavoured and moulded into dinosaurs, Lego bricks and other shapes. In addition, police seized more than 180 grams of cocaine, more than 290 grams of methamphetamine, a small number of dilaudid pills as well as cash, weapons including a firearm, and other items commonly used in drug trafficking. Leah Lewis of Campbell River has been charged with drug trafficking and production offences and is currently in custody. “It’s a profoundly disturbing seizure of drugs and I want to profoundly thank the RCMP who were involved in doing the investigation and breaking up this drug ring,” BC NDP candidate David Eby said on Friday. “We’re making sure that the RCMP have the tools they need to arrest the criminals who are distributing this toxic and poisonous drug supply throughout our province that’s killing people. We’re seizing the cars and the homes of the gangsters who are profiting from it. They’re not walking into casinos with bags of cash anymore with impunity, they are in court right now and we are taking their stuff and we’ve got to do more.” Eby said the federal government has a role to play in intercepting the chemicals that are imported to Canada and used to make these drugs. 11 October 2024 Source: Global News

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Italian man charged over alleged 15kg meth import through Sydney Airport

Methamphetamine

An Italian national is expected to appear before Downing Centre District Court today (22 November, 2024) charged with allegedly importing 15kg of methamphetamine into Australia concealed in his luggage. Australian Border Force (ABF) officers allegedly detected the illicit drugs yesterday (20 November, 2024) after selecting the man, 18, for a baggage examination when he arrived at Sydney Airport on a flight from Europe. They allegedly found packages of a white substance hidden in three large black plastic packages in the man’s suitcase. Initial testing of the substance returned a positive result for methamphetamine. The AFP arrested and charged the man with one count of importing a commercial quantity of a border controlled drug, contrary to section 307.1 of the Criminal Code Act 1995 (Cth). The offence carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. This amount of methamphetamine could have been sold as almost 150,000 street deals with an estimated value of $13 million. AFP Detective Superintendent Morgen Blunden said the AFP and its partners were committed to stamping out criminality in the airport environment, including by transnational drug syndicates. “Despite all the risks involved, we are still regularly arresting people who have attempted to bring illicit drugs into our country through our airports,” he said. “No matter how elaborate or creative the attempts are, the AFP and our partners are working tirelessly to prevent airports being used as part of the criminal supply chain.” ABF Superintendent Elke West said every day, officers were observing passengers’ behavior as they transited through airport terminals, looking out for any indicators that might raise suspicions and warrant further inspection. “ABF officers rely on their intuition and monitoring of passenger behaviours, as well as intelligence and liaison with partner agencies, to detect criminality at the border,” Superintendent West said. “Stopping any quantity of illicit drugs flooding into the market is a win for our officers, protects the community and removes the substance from causing any future harm.” 22 November 2024 AFP

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