2 weeks ago
5
February 12, 2026 — 10:57am
A north Queensland couple has been charged after they allegedly imported large quantities of drugs using a fishing trawler they were living in.
A 32 -year-old man and a 37-year-old woman were arrested in Mackay on Wednesday after federal police searched four properties in Mackay and south-east Queensland, where they seized electronic devices and documents.
The man set up a fishing business earlier in December 2024, whose account allegedly received deposits totalling about $500,000 the following month.
The AFP said the man purchased the boat in February 2025 for $230,000.
Authorities were tipped off when the trawler embarked on a voyage that was flagged as suspicious.
Police alleged the boat was the couple’s main residence until January 2026.
Both have been charged with one count of dealing with money and property worth more than $100,000 intended to be used for the importation of drugs.
The man was expected to appear in the Mackay Magistrates Court on Thursday, while the woman was due to appear in the Beenleigh Magistrates Court.
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