Joint media release: Customs and Border Protection and AFP

The Australian Federal Police (AFP) have arrested a seventh man in connection to an alleged cocaine syndicate that was dismantled at Sydney International Airport last month.

The 57-year-old Hillsdale man will appear in Sydney Central Local Court this afternoon.

Investigations into the cocaine syndicate began on 2 December 2007 when Customs and Border Protection officers discovered 5.7 kilograms of cocaine on board a plane at Sydney International Airport.

This consignment had a street value of approximately $1.6 million.

The AFP executed a search warrant on the man's Hillsdale residence this morning, where the man was arrested.

It will be alleged in court that the man was involved the 2007 importation, on a flight from Los Angeles to Sydney.

The man was charged today with the importation and possession of a commercial quantity of border controlled drugs as per section 307.1 of the Criminal Code 1995.

The offence carries a maximum penalty of 25 years imprisonment.

For police assistance, to report an incident or for more information at airports, call 131 AFP.

Media enquiries:
Customs and Border Protection Communication and Media (02) 6275 6793
AFP National Media (02) 6275 7100