This coverage is part of The Sydney Morning Herald’s national section, with standard site elements and related links.

Mitchell’s mother, Joanne Cullip, was arrested and released on bail after being charged with participating in the criminal activity.

Authorities seized drugs valued at about $5.5 million, including cannabis, ketamine, cocaine, MDMA, diazepam, and thousands of tablets, along with roughly $200,000 in cash.

The report was published on March 19, 2026, with an update a few minutes later.

Details on specific drugs, seizure locations, and identities of those charged are not fully disclosed in the excerpt.

The operation underscores ongoing efforts against organized drug crime and suggests international links in the network under investigation by Strike Force Dulce.

The Art has connections to collaborations with The Pixies and Marilyn Manson, factors being considered in upcoming tour decisions.

Investigators found a hidden drug room behind a wall filled with guitars, revealing ketamine, cannabis and other illicit substances.

A Sydney rock band frontman, his partner, and eight others have been charged after police uncovered a large drug operation at a Leichhardt studio.

Byrne’s band The Art has a history of notable performances and was planning a tour, though future plans are uncertain amid the investigation.

Byrne, Mitchell, and others were refused police bail and will appear in court as investigations continue.

Byrne previously faced a controversial Bali incident in 2014 linked to a villa and drugs but was not charged there.