Authorities have announced significant progress in dismantling the Coconut Cartel, following the detention of its suspected local leader and a series of operations conducted throughout Sydney, which included a substantial drug seizure earlier this year.
In a high-profile drug operation at a warehouse in Emu Plains last April, police confiscated over 400 kilograms of methamphetamine, a significant blow to the cartel’s operations.
The strategic execution of search warrants continued yesterday morning in Quakers Hill, Edensor Park, and Blacktown, culminating in the apprehension of nine individuals.
“We’ve been trying to catch up for a long time, but now we feel we’re finally on equal footing,” stated Assistant Commissioner Scott Cook.
Among those taken into custody was 27-year-old Henry Kupa, believed to be a leading figure within the Coconut Cartel and allegedly connected to the Emu Plains warehouse incident.
Additionally, police arrested several “middlemen” suspected of aiding the cartel in drug distribution.
A prison officer who was allegedly helping the gang locate their targets was also arrested and remains before the courts.
This month alone, detectives have locked up a dozen alleged foot soldiers, mostly contract criminals, including teenage boys and women.
“This investigation has reaffirmed the role that organised crime figures who are offshore play and in terms of directing the violence in NSW,” Cook said.
“The investigation has uncovered trusted insiders.
“[They] do not know who’s asking, do not know what it’s for, however, they continue to commit offences in terms of supporting the organised crime network.”
Three of the men, 27-year-old Isoa Moi Moi, 25-year-old Sione Tupou and 29-year-old Eric Hemma, faced Blacktown Local Court earlier today on charges including drug supply and participating in a criminal group.
Authorities allege the organised crime network is behind a spate of shootings, kidnappings, and attempted murders over the past 18 months in a violent feud against the Alameddine crime network.
The Coconut Cartel includes former members of the Mount Druitt street gang KVT who were once muscle for the Alameddines before a bitter falling out.
Pele is based in South-East Asia, sending orders to alleged onshore leader Henry Cupa, who police arrested last month in relation to the drugs found at Emu Plains.
