Media Statement
Media Statement: Arrest of dual Australian-Lebanese national
The AFP would like to acknowledge the work of the Lebanese Internal Security Forces in undertaking an operation last week targeting globally significant organised crime.
This operation resulted in Lebanese authorities arresting a 42-year-old dual Australian-Lebanese national who was allegedly directing the global activities of an organised crime syndicate.
The man was arrested pursuant to an Interpol Red Notice obtained by Australia, for offences related to drug trafficking and money laundering.
He is suspected of brokering and organising multiple drug shipments to Australia on behalf of a wide range of criminal syndicates from around the world during the past 11 years.
The man is expected to face legal proceedings in Lebanon for drug trafficking and money laundering offences.
The AFP provided intelligence support to the Lebanese Internal Security Forces for their investigation through Operation Gain and the AFP’s Beirut Post. The AFP stands ready to provide more support if requested in the future.
A significant number of people – some with alleged criminal links to Australia – were also arrested by the Lebanese Internal Security Forces in this operation. Investigations are ongoing.
Lebanon is a regional leader in the global fight against transnational organised crime.
The AFP’s partner law-enforcement agencies in Lebanon have a proven track record in taking determined, tangible action against organised crime figures targeting Australia from their country.
The AFP’s Global Operations Command is committed to continuing its work with international partners to combat transnational organised crime impacting all of our countries.
