Mystery packages wash ashore
Police are warning people not to touch barnacle-encrusted packages (pictured) but call Triple Zero (000) after seven have been washed up on beaches at Magenta, Blacksmiths, Avoca, and Manly since late Friday. Picture: NSW Police
Police are urging anyone who may have found a barnacle-covered package washed up on a NSW beach to hand it over, after authorities believe they could contain cocaine. NSW Police were alerted by a member of the public after they’d found the package at Magenta, on the NSW Central Coast, about 8pm on Friday. Police believe the package contains cocaine after it underwent presumptive testing.
Picture: NSW Police A crime scene was established and a wide-ranging search was conducted of the area on Saturday, where officers found three more packages. When the search continued on Sunday, officers found similar packages at Manly, Avoca and Blacksmiths beaches.
All parcels have been sent for further examination. Investigators are urging anyone who may have seen parcels similar to that depicted between Sydney and Newcastle to contact their local police. The packages recovered so far have had significant barnacle growth covering the outer plastic wrapping.
Police have also warned against anyone who finds the packages and is thinking of removing or opening any of the packages to call Triple 0 immediately.
As inquiries continue, anyone who may have information should call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.