Raptor Squad officers have charged six men for an alleged attempted drug rip at Port Botany overnight.
About 8.20pm on Sunday 12 January 2025, officers observed a group of unknown men – wearing balaclavas and high-vis clothing – jump the fence of a shipping company on Pier Road in Banksmeadow.
The men were seen to approach a number of shipping containers, armed with bolt cutters and other tools; however, were unsuccessful in breaching any of the containers.
About 10.35pm, officers attached to State Crime Command's Raptor Squad – with assistance from PolAir – arrested six men at Sir Joseph Banks Park in Botany.
The men, aged 19, 23, 27, 32 and two aged 18, were taken to both Maroubra and Mascot Police Stations, where they were all charged with attempt to possess commercial quantity unlawful import: border controlled drug, attempt to break & enter commit serious indictable offence and participate criminal group contribute criminal.
The eldest man was refused bail to appear in Downing Centre Local Court today (Monday 13 January 2024).
The remaining men were refused bail to appear in Waverley Local Court today.
Investigations with Australian Border Force continue.
Anyone with information that may assist investigators 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.
