Amid the ACT lockdown, police have caught and charged two men with multiple offences, following an extensive investigation into drug distribution and money laundering.
Yesterday, Thursday 12 August, three search warrants were executed at residences in Bonner and Holt, and at a City restaurant.
A 28-year-old Holt man was arrested, allegedly responsible for distributing significant amounts of cannabis around the ACT region.
Across town, a 49-year-old Bonner man was also arrested, allegedly responsible for laundering cash earned by the Holt man, through a restaurant he operates in Civic.
ABC News has named the Civic restaurateur as James Mullisson, chef and owner of the renowned Courgette Restaurant, and his co-accused as Mohammed Al-Mofathel, 28.
A substantial amount of evidence was collected at the search warrants, including more than $135,000 in cash, a gel blaster firearm, a commercial money counter, electronic devices, and a quantity of steroids.
Under proceeds of crime legislation, police have restrained the Bonner residence and three vehicles – a white Lamborghini coupe, a BMW 4-series sedan and a grey Ford Ranger – plus several bank accounts.
The approximate value of all the restrained items is over one million dollars.
Detective Superintendent Scott Moller said that it would be naive to think this type of crime doesn’t occur in Canberra.
“Unfortunately, Canberra is like all other cities when it comes to the illicit drug trade – there are those that seek to profit from these illegal activities,” Detective Superintendent Moller said.
“These arrests should serve as another reminder that ACT Policing is committed to these investigations. If you’re committing criminal activity and involved in organised crime, it’s likely we’re already aware of you and you can expect we’ll come knocking on your door soon.”
The Bonner man has been charged with multiple offences including: three counts of dealing in the proceeds of crime, perjury, money laundering, pervert the course of justice, making false evidence and use of a false document.
The Holt man has been charged with: trafficking cannabis, four counts of dealing in the proceeds of crime, perjury, two counts of money laundering, pervert the course of justice, making false evidence, and using false documentation.
Both men are scheduled to appear in the ACT Magistrates Court today, Friday 13 August.
Anyone who has information regarding drug trafficking or money laundering in the ACT is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or via the Crime Stoppers ACT website. Information can be provided anonymously.
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