Two Queenslanders are expected to appear in court today (12 February, 2026) after allegedly using suspected illicit funds to purchase a fishing trawler for drug importations.
A man, 32, is expected to appear before Mackay Magistrates Court and a woman, 37, is set to appear before Beenleigh Magistrates Court after an investigation into a voyage flagged as suspicious by authorities led to scrutiny of the fishing trawler's purchase.
AFP investigators allegedly identified the man had set up a trawl fishing company in December, 2024. A month later, multiple suspicious deposits totalling about $500,000 were made into the company's associated bank accounts.
The man allegedly used about $230,000 to purchase the trawler in February, 2025. Police will allege in court an analysis of bank transactions linked to the man were inconsistent with running a trawl fishing business.
The AFP will also allege the vessel - which was the couple's main residence until January, 2026 - was purchased with illicit funds to facilitate the importation of illegal drugs.
The AFP executed four simultaneous search warrants on properties in south-east Queensland and Mackay yesterday (11 February, 2026) as part of the investigation.
During the searches police seized a number of electronic devices and documents for further examination.
The man and woman were each charged with one count of dealing with money and property worth $100,000 or more intending the property to be used as an instrument of crime, namely the importation of border controlled drugs, contrary to section 400.4(1) of the Criminal Code (Cth).
This offence carries a maximum penalty of 20 years' imprisonment.
AFP Detective Acting Superintendent Shane Scott said ensuring community safety was at the heart of AFP operations, and anyone involved in drug importations should know they were on the AFP's radar.
"The AFP is committed to defending Australia from drug trafficking and disrupting anyone attempting to profit at the expense and suffering of the community," a/Supt Scott said.
"Illicit drugs attack the fabric of a safe society, so no matter how small a part a person plays in the importation of drugs, know that the AFP and our law enforcement partners will make sure you face your day in court."
