186 kilograms of cocaine seized in Tasmania

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News186 kilograms of cocaine seized in TasmaniaBy Matt MaloneyUpdated December 22 2016 - 7:59am, first published December 21 2016 - 11:30amBy Matt MaloneyUpdated December 22 2016 - 7:59am,

first published December 21 2016 - 11:30amFacebookTwitterWhatsappEmailCopyView +18 Photos Tasmania Police have confirmed that 186 kilograms of cocaine was seized during a multi-agency drug

operation in Hobart on Friday.

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50% off EOFY SaleAll articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperCrosswords, Sudoku and TriviaAll other regional websites in your areaContinue Ten Chinese nationals

were onboard the 50-metre commercial vessel carrying the drugs and the men, aged between 23 and 50 years old, were each charged with attempting to import a commercial quantity of drugs.

If convicted, the men could face life imprisonment.

The estimated street value of the haul is $60.45 million.

The boat, a former research vessel, was spotted on a routine Royal Australian Air Force aerial patrol a fortnight ago after it was spotted travelling in international waters, 200 nautical

miles from Australia’s western coastline.

Its behavior led the air force to alert Australian Border Force and on December 12, defence personnel from the HMAS Adelaide intercepted and boarded the vessel as it travelled in the

Southern Ocean off Tasmania without encountering resistance. 

After drugs were uncovered, the vessel and its detained crew members were then escorted to Hobart.

Tasmania Police Assistant Commissioner Glenn Frame said due to the size of the vessel, the examination took a number of days.

“Authorities located approximately 186 kilograms of the suspicious substance, which had been compressed into bricks and wrapped in plastic,” he said.

“Forensic testing has indicated the substance is cocaine, and further analysis will be conducted to determine the exact weight and purity.

“The investigation into the origin and destination of the drugs is continuing, however, it is unlikely that a criminal venture of this nature would target the small Tasmanian market.”

The men who have been charged for drug importation have appeared in the Hobart Magistrates Court where they were refused bail.

They will reappear on January 13.

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