Three men have been charged as part of ongoing investigations into an alleged large-scale fraud in the Illawarra region.
Strike Force Mote was established by detectives from Lake Illawarra Police District in May 2020 to investigate organised crime in the Illawarra.
As part of ongoing investigations, detectives allegedly uncovered a large-scale fraud operation involving multiple Illawarra businesses.
Following extensive inquiries, five search warrants were executed at businesses and homes across the Illawarra yesterday (Wednesday 17 February 2021).
The police operation commenced shortly after 9am, with two men – both aged 33 – arrested at homes in Wongawilli and Calderwood. They were both taken to Lake Illawarra Police Station.
About 12pm, a third man, aged 35, was arrested at Lake Illawarra Police Station.
During the course of the search warrants, investigators seized financial documents, poker machines, firearms and electronic devices. These items will undergo forensic examination.
Both 33-year-old men were charged with 19 counts of publish etc false/misleading information to obtain advantage, dishonestly obtain financial advance by deception and participate criminal group contribute criminal activity.
The 35-year-old man was charged with nine counts of publish etc false/misleading information to obtain advantage and participate criminal group contribute criminal activity.
Police will allege the two younger men were using falsified documentation in an attempt to obtain a $14.7 million loan to construct homes in Avondale.
It's further alleged the 35-year-old man used his position as a real estate agent to publish false contracts of sale.
Inquiries are continuing and further charges are expected to be laid.
All three men were granted conditional bail to appear in Port Kembla Local Court on Wednesday 14 April 2021.
