Wild footage of alleged $14m meth bust

Police allege $14 million of methamphetamine was seized during an investigation into a drug syndicate in Perth. WA Police.
Police allege $14 million of methamphetamine was seized during an investigation into a drug syndicate in Perth. WA Police.

Police have released body worn camera footage of the moment they raided an unsuspecting Perth home, allegedly locating a “consignment” of methamphetamine with an estimated street value of $14 million.

On Thursday morning, detectives from Western Australia’s transnational serious and organised crime squad stormed a Ballajura home finding a black duffel bag containing jars of a white crystalline substance.

A 47-year-old man was arrested at the scene, where police allegedly also located $10,000 in cash and multiple encrypted mobile phones.

Footage of the search shows a police officer secure the home’s resident. WA Police.
Footage of the search shows a police officer secure the home’s resident. WA Police.

Assistant Commissioner Tony Longhorn said the 10am raid was initiated as part of an ongoing investigation into suspected drug trafficking.

“This is an example of another criminal syndicate who thought they could operate in our community under our noses,” he said.

“The investigation in ongoing and we are working to identify those further up the food chain that are responsible for sending this consignment of (alleged) illicit drugs to Western Australia.”

The home’s resident, captured on video turning away the moment police entered the building, was charged with possessing a traffickable quantity with the intent to sell or supply, and possession of unlawfully obtained property.

Police say the alleged drugs had a street value of about $14 million. WA Police.
Police say the alleged drugs had a street value of about $14 million. WA Police.

Assistant Commissioner Longhorn said the alleged seizure prompted police to execute further search warrants across Mirrabooka and Ellenbrook, where a second man was arrested.

At an Ellenbrook property, police allegedly seized more than $114,000 in cash, alongside cannabis and drug paraphernalia.

The 49-year-old man was charged with offences including money laundering and drug supply.

Both men were expected to face a Perth court on Friday.