Sydney Cocaine Seizure: Failed Heist and Overseas Connections Unveiled
A large-scale cocaine operation in Sydney was thwarted in December 2023, not by police intervention alone, but by a neighbor’s alert and a series of missteps by those attempting to steal the drugs. The incident, involving over 700 kilograms of cocaine, has revealed a complex web of alleged criminal activity, including kidnapping plots, drone surveillance, and international connections.
The Discovery at Ryde
On December 18, 2023, NSW Police raided an apartment on Blaxland Road in Ryde, uncovering one of the largest cocaine seizures in Australian history. The drugs, estimated to be worth billions of dollars, were found stuffed into sports bags and filling cupboards as reported by the ABC. The then Robbery and Serious Crime Squad commander, Joe Doueihi, described the quantity seized as “unseen.”
A Planned Heist
Court documents reveal that a group allegedly planned to steal the cocaine from the Ryde apartment. Hussein Habeeb, who rented the apartment three weeks prior to the raid, became the target of a kidnapping plot as a rival group learned of the stash. The group reportedly used a drone to surveil the apartment complex, attempting to view inside the unit according to police documents.
Encrypted Communications
Police obtained access to encrypted group chats used by those allegedly planning the heist. Messages indicated the group believed the apartment contained “500 bricks” of cocaine. They discussed monitoring Habeeb and attempting to acquire the drugs through smaller purchases. Brandon Maseuli is alleged to have been the ringleader, organizing the kidnapping of Habeeb to complete the heist.
Overseas Connections
The investigation led police to Anthony Pele, a wanted accused underworld assassin. Pele, sought in connection with the murder of Ahmed Al-Azzam in July 2023, is believed to have fled the country as stated by NSW Police. Using the handle “TOPBOY” on the Threema app, Pele allegedly directed the group from overseas, instructing them to monitor Habeeb and prepare for the operation.
The Failed Attempt and Arrests
On December 17, 2023, messages revealed plans to kidnap Habeeb and search the unit. However, a neighbor alerted authorities after witnessing masked men entering the underground garage. Police arrived and arrested several individuals in a Toyota Yaris, including Moumin Hamouda, Elden Huric, Bilal Gheneim, and Liam Goodhew, who were charged with conspiracy to kidnap and armed break and enter. Youssef Rima was also charged with aggravated break and enter. All have pleaded not guilty and will face trial.
Increased Police Response to Hate Crimes
In a separate development, the NSW government launched a 24/7 rapid response unit, Operation Shelter, equipped with long-arm rifles to protect against hate-related offences in Sydney as reported on February 25, 2026. This initiative, involving 250 officers, aims to reassure the community following a terror attack and increase police presence at high-risk locations.