An immigration detainee and another man have been charged in connection with an alleged drug ring operating from within a detention facility.
Police accuse Dirichukwu Patrick Nweke, a 49-year-old Nigerian national, of dealing large quantities of methylamphetamine using an encrypted messaging service from Villawood Immigration Detention Centre in Sydney’s west.
Organized crime investigators claim Nweke established and coordinated a network of runners to conduct drug transactions on his behalf. During a search of a unit at the center on July 11, police reportedly discovered three mobile phones. Nweke faces multiple charges, including directing a criminal group and supplying a large commercial quantity of prohibited drugs. Police said they previously seized two kilograms of methylamphetamine and $169,000 in cash linked to the syndicate.
On Wednesday, detectives found 750 grams of methylamphetamine and 90 grams of heroin in a toilet bowl during a search of a home in Liverpool. This discovery was allegedly an attempt to dispose of the drugs. Additional heroin was found on the bathroom floor, along with $325,000 in cash and an encrypted electronic device. Police released footage showing riot squad officers breaking down the door and an image of $50 notes stacked inside a cardboard box.
A 24-year-old man, allegedly a runner for Nweke, was also arrested. He faces charges of supplying a prohibited drug, participating in a criminal group, and other offenses. Both men were denied bail following brief court appearances.
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