PLEASE NOTE: An image of one of the packages has been posted to the NSW Police social media pages.
Police are warning the public after seven packages – suspected to contain cocaine – have washed up on beaches between Newcastle and Sydney since late Friday night.
The first package was found at Magenta about 8pm on Friday (22 December 2023), by a member of the public who called officers from Tuggerah Lakes Police District.
Local police attended and removed the barnacle-covered item, which was sent for further examination and testing.
Police have now been told presumptive testing indicates the package contains cocaine.
A crime scene was established with officers from Northern Region Operational Support Group assisting with a wide-ranging search of the area yesterday (Saturday 23 December 2023). A further three packages have since been found.
Officers attached to coastal stations conducted searches today, with similar packages located at Manly, Avoca and Blacksmiths beaches. All parcels have been sent for further examination.
Investigators are now urging anyone who may have seen parcels similar to that depicted to contact their local police. The packages recovered so far have had significant barnacle growth covering the outer plastic wrapping.
Police are keen to warn the public against removing or opening any of the packages and, if found, to call Triple Zero (000) immediately. Officers are also working closely with Surf Life Saving NSW as beaches continue to be searched.
As inquiries continue, anyone who may have information which could assist investigators is urged to contact their local police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.
