A major drug bust at the Sydney waterfront uncovered 506 kilograms of cocaine hidden behind a false wall in a shipping container, with an estimated street value of over 164 million Australian dollars.

Three Sydney dockworkers, aged 25, 38, and 42, have been charged in connection with the shipment, which originated from Europe and is part of an ongoing investigation.

The investigation, led by a multi-agency strike force involving Commonwealth and NSW law enforcement, aims to dismantle transnational crime groups exploiting port insiders.

Authorities tracked suspects, including a forklift driver and an associate, through surveillance, leading to their arrest and the discovery of tools used to access the concealed compartment.

The three men appeared in court and are scheduled to return on October 29; only one was granted bail, while the others remain in custody.

Ongoing investigations focus on the shipment's origin and broader criminal networks, with authorities emphasizing the threat posed by organized crime exploiting port insiders.

Officials highlighted the risks of organized crime infiltrating Australia's borders through trusted port workers and supply chains.

Australian Federal Police condemned drug traffickers for community harm and emphasized their continued efforts to target organized crime involved in drug smuggling.

The multi-agency strike team, including federal and state agencies, seized cash and arrested suspects, with searches uncovering additional proceeds of crime.

Authorities are actively investigating the criminal syndicate responsible for the large-scale drug importation, focusing on insiders within Sydney ports.

The two older men, aged 38 and 42, are forklift drivers employed by a global shipping and logistics company, with their names not disclosed.

The suspects, including a 25-year-old man, face serious charges, with potential life imprisonment if convicted, and some have been granted bail under strict conditions.