Strike Force Wessex, a joint operation between the State Crime Command’s criminal groups squad and the NSW Crime Commission, conducted raids assisted by various law enforcement agencies. Their main focus was the “dial-a-dealer” network, where major drug dealers use runners to deliver drugs to users in exchange for cash. Among those arrested was “drill rapper” Younes, who was taken into custody over an aggravated kidnapping and allegedly participating in a criminal group. Another high-profile target was Ali Elmoubayed, who was also arrested over alleged drug-related offences. Despite some individuals fleeing to Lebanon or Turkey, police assured there were no safe havens, as seen with the arrest of accused international crime boss Bilal Haouchar.
Commander Detective Superintendent Grant Taylor mentioned that they had gathered significant evidence linking Younes to the alleged kidnapping and his association with individuals connected to the Alameddine syndicate. Although Younes has not been charged with any other crimes related to the group, Taylor emphasized the ongoing investigation into these criminal activities. The alleged leader of the Alameddine gang, Rafat Alameddine, has been living freely in Lebanon since November 2022, and has not been charged with any offences related to the underworld war. Despite the challenges posed by individuals fleeing the country, law enforcement agencies remain dedicated to bringing all those involved in organized crime to justice.
During the raids, weapons were allegedly seized, along with other suspicious items that point towards the involvement of these individuals in criminal activities. The police intercepted a significant amount of evidence that ties the arrested individuals to the alleged crimes, highlighting the complexity and seriousness of the investigations. Strike Force Wessex also shut down 26 phones that were allegedly used for drug runs and sent warning messages to potential customers to cease all contact to avoid further investigation. This crackdown on the “dial-a-dealer” network aims to disrupt the illegal drug supply chain and dismantle criminal organizations involved in drug trafficking.
The successful arrests of high-profile targets like Younes and Ali Elmoubayed demonstrate the effectiveness of multi-agency task forces like Strike Force Wessex in combating organized crime. With the collaboration of various law enforcement agencies and the dedication of officers involved in the operation, significant progress has been made in disrupting the operations of drug dealers and criminal syndicates. The warning messages sent to customers also serve as a deterrent against engaging in illegal drug activities, signaling a proactive approach to tackling drug-related crimes and protecting the community from the harmful effects of drug abuse.
The arrest of accused international crime boss Bilal Haouchar in Lebanon, despite his attempts to flee justice, serves as a reminder that there are no safe havens for criminals involved in organized crime. The resolve and determination of law enforcement agencies to pursue individuals involved in drug trafficking and other criminal activities are evident in the successful apprehension of key figures like Haouchar. With ongoing investigations and continued efforts to dismantle criminal networks, authorities remain committed to bringing perpetrators to justice and ensuring the safety and security of the community.
As the investigations into the alleged criminal activities of individuals connected to the Alameddine syndicate continue, law enforcement agencies remain vigilant in their efforts to uncover evidence and hold those responsible accountable for their actions. The raids conducted by Strike Force Wessex and the subsequent arrests of key figures like Younes and Ali Elmoubayed demonstrate a proactive approach to disrupting organized crime networks and dismantling illegal drug supply chains. By targeting the “dial-a-dealer” network and sending warning messages to potential customers, authorities aim to curb drug-related crimes and protect the community from the harmful effects of drug trafficking.
