Investigation underway in Newcastle, reports of drugs on ship

A BULK carrier berthed in Port of Newcastle allegedly arrived with drugs attached to its hull.

DCN understands the ship was escorted into the port this week to berth at the GrainCorp terminal in Carrington, Newcastle.

Vessel traffic sites indicate Cyprus-flagged Stalo (IMO: 9758404) anchored at Newcastle on 22 January and berthed at the grain terminal the next day.

According to the vessel traffic sites, the ship had sailed from China and previously from Singapore.

Local media reports indicate cocaine was found attached to the hull of the ship.

“The AFP and NSW Police Force are undertaking activity in Newcastle as part of an ongoing joint investigation,” an Australian Federal Police spokesperson told DCN.

“Two men have been charged with attempting to possess a commercial quantity of a border-controlled drug,” the spokesperson said.

A source in Newcastle has told DCN that, on Friday afternoon (27 January) Stalo was being loaded with grain, confirming the investigation had not impacted loading operations.

GrainCorp declined to comment as authorities are still investigating the matter.