A man has been charged following an investigation into an alleged large-scale dark net drug trafficking operation that authorities say generated tens of millions of dollars in illicit revenue over several years. The investigation is part of an ongoing probe by NSW Police into a criminal network allegedly operating across multiple suburbs in Sydney’s north.
An Alleged Dark Net Syndicate
NSW Police State Crime Command’s Cybercrime Squad, working alongside the NSW Crime Commission, established Strike Force Carieville to investigate a criminal group conducting a large-scale drug supply operation facilitated through the dark net.
According to authorities, the group is believed to have sold over $80 million worth of prohibited drugs over the past eight years and is described as having operated one of the largest drug vendors on the dark web. Authorities have also stated that five individuals have been charged in connection with the broader investigation and remain before the courts.
Raid & Arrests
As part of ongoing inquiries, about 10.30am on 31 March 2026, strike force detectives, with assistance from the Raptor Squad, arrested a 38 year-old man in Thornleigh. The individual was taken to Hornsby Police Station for processing.
Following the arrest, at about 1.20pm, police conducted a search of a unit on the Pacific Highway in Wahroonga, allegedly seizing electronic devices, $35,000 in cash, and 20 grams of illicit drugs. A further search at about 8.10pm at a residence on Oxley Drive in Mount Colah allegedly resulted in the seizure of cannabis and a large amount of drug paraphernalia.
Charges and Court Proceedings
The 38-year-old man has been charged with knowingly deal with proceeds of crime and three counts of fail to comply with digital evidence access order direction. He was refused bail and is due to appear before Hornsby Local Court today. Authorities have also stated that investigations under Strike Force Carieville remain ongoing.
Conclusion
The case reportedly forms part of a wider investigation into alleged Australian dark net drug distribution activity spanning several years. The information released so far remains limited and largely general in nature, with key details such as the online identity of the alleged vendor and the structure of the operation not fully disclosed. Further legal proceedings are expected as inquiries continue, and additional details may emerge as the matter progresses through the courts.
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