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Indian-origin Gurvinder Singh accused of running major drug, cigarette smuggling operation in Australia
The operation included 280 kg of liquid methamphetamine, cocaine hidden in cement sacks, and a network of 'trusted insiders' at port facilities who assisted the ring. The network made at least $443,000 selling contraband cigarettes on Sydney's black market alone read more
Gurvinder Singh, 42, an Indian-origin Australian, was arrested after a two-year probe for allegedly masterminding a global drug smuggling network. News18
Gurvinder Singh, a 42-year-old Indian-origin Australian man, was arrested following a two-year multi-agency investigation for allegedly masterminding an international drug operation that smuggled 20 million illicit cigarettes and over half a tonne of cocaine into Sydney, according to Australia Today.
The operation included 280 kg of liquid methamphetamine, cocaine hidden in cement sacks, and a network of 'trusted insiders' at port facilities who assisted the ring. The network made at least $443,000 selling contraband cigarettes on Sydney's black market alone.
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Last month, the strike team executed synchronised early-morning raids involving over 150 police on residences in Punchbowl, Wetherill Park, and the neighbouring suburbs. Gurvindar Singh was arrested outside a private property shortly after exiting his car near a waiting police car.
Two Canadians of Indian descent, Aman Kang (24) and Mani Singh Dhaliwal (31), were also arrested. Authorities claim that they were hired by Gurvindar Singh to recover and distribute the cocaine cargo.
Singh is facing five charges for importing a commercial quantity of border-controlled drugs and illegal tobacco, two counts of dealing with proceeds of crime, and two charges related to leading a criminal group. If found guilty, he could face life in prison.
Kang and Dhaliwal have been charged with possessing a commercial quantity of drugs and participating in a criminal group. All three were denied bail during their initial court appearances and are scheduled to return to Downing Centre Local Court in July.
Singh's lawyer argued for his release on bail, citing his client's underlying health issues and the fact that he is the sole provider for his family.
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