$170 Million in Drugs and Firearms Seized in Sydney Raid Linked to ‘Kill Team’ Syndicate

Introduction

In a major crackdown, New South Wales Police announced the seizure of drugs worth $170 million along with firearms, connected to a criminal group reportedly involved in a foiled attempted murder near a Sydney daycare last week. Authorities say the operation targeted a sophisticated, transnational criminal syndicate with roots in Southeast Asia.

The Raid and Seizures

During the raids on Wednesday, police recovered approximately 400 kilograms (880 pounds) of methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin, carefully vacuum-sealed in duffel bags and hidden across multiple safe houses in Sydney.

Also seized were three pistols and over 300 rounds of ammunition, indicating the group’s potential for violent operations. Some drug packages were marked with a cartoon bear graphic, reminiscent of the 2012 film Ted, while others featured Chinese characters translating to “smooth sailing.”

Police estimated the street value of the drugs at Aus$260 million (US$170 million).

Connections to Organised Crime

Authorities believe the syndicate is “highly likely” linked to the attempted murder last week and may have ties to previous violent incidents, including the April abduction and killing of a Sydney mother over her husband’s alleged connection to a Vietnamese-linked organised crime network.

Organised Crime Squad Commander Peter Faux told local media,

“We believe there are strong connections between this syndicate and incidents involving organised crime in Sydney over recent months.”

The investigation underscores the growing influence of Southeast Asian criminal networks, which, in collaboration with South American cartels, have increasingly targeted Australia’s lucrative drug market.

Arrests and Legal Action

Three men, aged between 19 and 26, were taken into custody and charged with multiple drug supply offences. Police continue to trace the full extent of the network and its connections to regional and international organised crime groups.

“The market for high-value drugs such as cocaine and methamphetamine in Australia remains extremely profitable, attracting sophisticated criminal syndicates,” Faux added.

Broader Implications

The raids highlight the interconnected nature of global crime, with Southeast Asian Triads and South American cartels collaborating to exploit markets in Australia. Authorities have warned that continued vigilance is essential to combat these well-resourced and violent criminal networks.