Operation Crozet: Two Darknet Drug Suppliers Arrested in Australia
In February 2017, the Australian Federal Police (AFP) and the Australian Border Force (ABF) launched an investigation into international drug traffickers operating in Melbourne. Among other drugs intercepted from dealers, the ABF seized 15.8 kilograms of MDMA and 2.6 kilograms of cocaine from the postal system.
This joint operation was named “CROZET.” By late October, the operation yielded its first significant results: two wholesale dealers supplying drugs both locally (to Australian darknet markets) and internationally were arrested.
Police Raids in Melbourne Suburbs
In the Melbourne suburbs of Mernda and Kew, Australian police conducted three raids with pre-approved search warrants. Search teams discovered a large stash of drugs at one location. At another, they found a significant amount of cash and seized a Lamborghini Gallardo. According to the AFP, the money and the car became evidence in the drug crime case against the suspect.
What the Police Seized
- 1 kilogram of ketamine
- 1 kilogram of methamphetamine
- 10 vials of testosterone
- 700 grams of cocaine
- 1 kilogram of marijuana
- 10 kilograms of MDMA
- 16 liters of 1,4-butanediol (BD)
A 27-year-old man from Mernda and a 26-year-old man from Kew were arrested. Following this operation, Australian law enforcement stated they would continue their active crackdown and that they intercept drug packages at the border every day.
Recent Major Drug Interceptions
Less than a month before these arrests, a joint investigation between the ABF, AFP, and Thai authorities led to the interception of 4 tons of ephedrine. The AFP arrested two 22-year-old Australian men. According to government estimates, this shipment could have been used to produce methamphetamine worth approximately $3.5 billion.