Four Charged in $190 Million Queensland-New South Wales Money Laundering Bust

An 18-month investigation involving multiple Australian agencies uncovered a sophisticated $190 million money laundering scheme centered on a Gold Coast-based security company that used its armoured transport service to move illicit cash nationwide. Four individuals, including two Brisbane men and a Gold Coast couple who held director and managerial roles at the security firm, were charged with money laundering offences linked to the operation. The scheme allegedly funneled millions of dollars through businesses such as a sales promotion company and a classic car dealership, mixing criminal proceeds with legitimate funds before converting them into cryptocurrency or dispersing via third parties. Authorities seized assets worth approximately $21 million, including 17 properties, luxury vehicles, bank accounts, and crypto wallets, following raids across Queensland and New South Wales. Investigators highlighted the use of complex banking networks, couriers, and 'dead drop' locations nationwide to facilitate the laundering process, emphasizing the operation's national scale and the significant blow dealt to the criminal network. The accused are scheduled to face court proceedings in Queensland, with some remanded in custody and others granted bail.