A 49-year-old Nigerian immigration detainee, Dirichukwu Patrick Nweke, has been charged alongside his accomplice for orchestrating a $9 million drug trafficking operation that was reportedly run from the Villawood Immigration Detention Centre in Sydney, Australia.
According to the New South Wales Police, Nweke allegedly managed the drug trafficking network using an encrypted messaging service. Investigators claim that from inside the detention centre, Nweke directed a team of runners who distributed large quantities of methylamphetamine and cocaine throughout Sydney.
In an operation on July 11, police raided a unit within the detention centre and discovered three mobile phones. This led to further investigation, which culminated in the seizure of 2 kilograms of methylamphetamine and $169,000 in cash. Nweke now faces multiple charges, including directing a criminal group and supplying a large commercial quantity of prohibited drugs.
In a separate operation, detectives uncovered methylamphetamine and heroin concealed in a toilet bowl during a search of a residence in Liverpool. The heroin was reportedly being disposed of, with additional quantities found scattered on the bathroom floor. Police also seized $325,000 in cash and an encrypted electronic device linked to the operation.
A 24-year-old man, identified as an alleged runner for Nweke, was arrested and charged with supplying prohibited drugs, participating in a criminal group, and other related offences. Detective Superintendent Peter Faux highlighted the significant drug finds, noting, “Police located 750 grams of methylamphetamine and 90 grams of heroin in a toilet bowl, which we allege was an attempt to dispose of the drugs. We also seized $325,000 in cash and a dedicated encrypted criminal communication device.”
This coordinated effort resulted in the dismantling of three separate drug syndicates across Sydney, with the total street value of the seized drugs exceeding $9 million.
Both Nweke and the alleged runner were denied bail following brief court appearances at Bankstown Local Court on July 12.
