Two Men Charged for Alleged Role in Supplying Drugs to Cessnock Prison

Criminal Groups Squad detectives have charged two men for their alleged involvement in a drug supply operation within a correctional facility in Cessnock. The arrests follow an ongoing investigation into a drug syndicate linked to the Alameddine Organised Crime Network.

The two men, aged 31 and 23, were arrested at a Silverwater correctional facility on 23 September 2024. Both are accused of participating in a criminal group and supplying prohibited substances to inmates at a Cessnock prison.

The investigation, launched in April 2023 by State Crime Command’s Criminal Groups Squad, initially focused on drug distribution via ‘dial-a-dealer’ operations across Sydney. However, detectives soon uncovered an organised effort to smuggle drugs into the Hunter correctional centre, which led to the arrests.

Strike Force Wessex detectives have now charged six individuals in connection with the operation, including four men and two women. All six are currently before the courts.

The two recently charged men are accused of facilitating the supply of drugs with an estimated prison value of $250,000. Both men were denied bail during their appearance at Parramatta Local Court and are scheduled to return tomorrow, 26 September 2024.

The investigation remains ongoing as detectives continue to dismantle the criminal syndicate.

Investigations Continue Under Strike Force Wessex

Detectives will allege in court that the two men, believed to be members of the Alameddine Network, played significant roles in coordinating the supply of prohibited drugs to the correctional facility. Their actions are said to have contributed to an illegal operation within the prison, placing further strain on authorities dealing with contraband in correctional centres.

Strike Force Wessex is continuing its efforts to combat drug distribution networks both within and outside the prison system, with further charges possible as the investigation unfolds.