Newcastle Men Face A Life Sentence Over Massive Cocaine Haul

BY IAN CROUCH

Three Newcastle men accused of trying to import 700 kilograms of cocaine from Tahiti to Australia are facing the prospect of life behind bars.

Musicians Craig Lemke and Kent Jackson along with another man, Dennis Bath are facing drug importation charges over the $245 million haul which was found on a yacht intercepted near Toronto on Wednesday.

It's been revealed Lemke, who allegedly sailed the catamaran from Tahiti, had no idea he was being tracked all the way.

Australian Border Force Acting Assistant Commissioner, James Watson says authorities are always on the lookout for drug smugglers.

"It doesn't matter whether it's one gram or a hundred kilograms or 700 kilograms. Our officers are absolutely determined to work with all of our partners, both onshore and offshore, to detect and disrupt these kind of importations from occurring," he said.

Dennis Bath Was Allegedly On Board The Catamaran When It Was Intercepted On Lake Macquarie

Massive Cocaine Haul Found On Yacht In Lake Mcquarie

BY IAN CROUCH and JESSICA ROUSE

Detectives and forensic officers are working to get a massive haul of cocaine off a yacht in Lake Macquarie.

At least half a tonne of cocaine bound for Australia from Tahiti was intercepted on a yacht at Toronto yesterday.

A multi-agency investigation comprising officers from the NSW Police Force, Federal Police, the Organised Crime Squad, Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission and the Australian Border Force began in August, targeting the importation of cocaine by private vessels.

As a result of inquiries, officers commenced a joint resolution operation in Lake Macquarie on Wednesday, intercepting a yacht at Toronto.

It's alleged the massive drug haul was found concealed in the hull of the vessel.

The drugs have an estimated street value of $245 million.

Three men, a 47, 63 and a 68-year-old were arrested and charged over the alleged importation - they've been formally refused bail in Newcastle Local Court today.

The Yacht Which Police Alleged Was Being Used To Import To Import Cocaine To Australia

 Picture: Supplied

One Of Three People Arrested Accused Of Importing Half A Tonne Of Cocaine Picture: Supplied