NSW police dismantle Illawarra drug and firearms syndicate, nine arrested

Police detectives from New South Wales mounted a coordinated operation in June 2025 to target organised drug and weapons supply in the Illawarra and surrounding areas. Strike Force Mokine executed 16 search warrants across Lake Illawarra, the South Coast, Taree and Forster, seizing six firearms—including semi‑automatic pistols and rifles—gel‑blasters, a dart gun and ammunition, as well as about 300 g of cocaine, 10 g of methamphetamine and roughly $150,000 in cash. Nine people (five men and four women, aged 21 to 42) were arrested and charged with commercial drug supply, firearm offences and dealing with proceeds of crime.

In a related raid at a Forster motel, a 28‑year‑old man was taken into custody on six offences, including supplying prohibited drugs and possessing unauthorised pistols and ammunition. He was refused bail pending a court appearance. The investigations continue, with police also issuing warrants for six alleged fugitives believed to frequent Illawarra suburbs.