WA: Ironside Maidos (case study)
Summary
As a result of Operation Ironside intelligence, AFP investigators identified a WA safe house where the proceeds of drug deals were being processed and stored for sending to the Eastern States.
AFP executed a search warrant at the Girrawheen property in November 2020, where they found almost $6.2 million in cash.
One room in the home was believed to be used exclusively to count and package cash. Police seized two electronic currency counters and cryovac sealing equipment.
The cash found, predominantly $100 and $50 bills, was sealed in bags and stored inside thermal shopping bags that were then bubble wrapped. The bags were hidden in cardboard boxes among new clothing and polystyrene balls.
AFP investigators believe the cash was packaged in preparation for being sent to the Eastern States.
Two men, then aged 29 and 30, were arrested at the property and charged with dealing in the proceeds of crime worth $1 million or more, which carries a maximum penalty of 25 years’ imprisonment.
They have since pleaded guilty and are expected to be sentenced on 27 July 2021.
AFP investigators believe the men played a crucial role in facilitating the transfer of proceeds of crime from multiple syndicates that had distributed drugs in WA.
AFP Western-Central Command Assistant Commissioner Chris Craner said seizing cash linked to illegal activities is a critical part of the AFP’s strategy to smash organised crime.
“It takes the profit out of crime and prevents that money being used to fund future illegal activities, or enrich the lifestyles of those who prey upon and exploit our community,” Assistant Commissioner Craner said.