Cybercrime Squad detectives have charged a further two people as part of an ongoing investigation into a criminal syndicate allegedly involved in money laundering and identity theft across NSW.
In April this year, detectives from the State Crime Command's Cybercrime Squad established Strike Force Bilkurra to investigate a criminal syndicate involved in cyber-enabled fraudulent activity including identity theft and money laundering.
Investigations identified that stolen personal identification information was used to acquire fraudulent credit cards, which were then used to obtain cash, cryptocurrency, telecommunication equipment and household goods.
On Wednesday 26 August 2020, Strike Force Bilkurra investigators executed three search warrants at homes at Eastgardens, South Coogee and Randwick.
During the searches, detectives seized more than 150 mobile phones and more than 300 sim cards, as well as computers and electronic equipment.
Officers also seized $11,580 cash, more than 300 credit cards, personal identification documentation and about 18g of a white substance believed to be methylamphetamine (ice).
Luxury handbags valued at $50,000 and two vehicles – a Land Rover and Holden Commodore – were also seized. All items will undergo further examination.
Two men, aged 41 and 44, and a 42-year-old woman were arrested during the operation. All three were charged and remain before the courts.
Following further inquiries, Cybercrime Squad detectives arrested a 27-year-old man at Newtown just after 1.30pm on Thursday 27 August 2020.
He was taken to Newtown Police Station and charged with participate in criminal group contribute to criminal activity, 16 counts of knowingly deal with proceeds of crime and possess identity info to commit indictable offence.
The man appeared at Newtown Local Court on Friday 28 August 2020, where he was formally refused bail to reappear at Central Local Court on Thursday 22 October 2020.
As part of ongoing investigations, a 52-year-old Sydney woman was arrested at Mascot Police Station earlier today (Friday 18 September 2020).
She was charged with participate in criminal group contribute to criminal activity, six counts of possess identity info to commit indictable offence and five counts of knowingly deal with proceeds of crime.
The woman was granted strict conditional bail to appear at the Downing Centre Local Court on Monday 26 October 2020.
Five people have now been charged with a total of 103 offences following investigations under Strike Force Bilkurra, which are continuing.
Victims of identity theft can contact IDCARE for assistance to reduce the harm experienced from the compromise and misuse of identity information: https://www.idcare.org.
Anyone with information that may assist Strike Force Bilkurra investigators is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence.
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