New South Wales police have issued a warning to the public about packages suspected of containing cocaine washing up on beaches between Sydney and Newcastle.
At least seven packages – with “significant barnacle growth” on the outer plastic wrapping – have been found on beaches since Friday night, and police on Sunday warned people not to open or remove any further finds.
A member of the public found the first package at Magenta, north of Sydney and on the state’s Central Coast, at about 8pm Friday.
“Local police attended and removed the barnacle-covered item, which was sent for further examination and testing,” NSW police said in a statement.
“Police have now been told presumptive testing indicates the package contains cocaine.”
Three more packages were discovered after a crime scene was established and a “wide-ranging search of the area” was carried out on Saturday.
On Sunday, police said officers along the coast carried out their own searches and found “similar” packages at Manly beach in Sydney, Blacksmiths beach in Lake Macquarie, and the Central Coast’s Avoca beach.
“All parcels have been sent for further examination,” police said.
Investigators urged anyone who may have seen similar parcels to contact local police.
“Police are keen to warn the public against removing or opening any of the packages and, if found, to call triple zero immediately,” they said.
“Officers are also working closely with Surf Life Saving NSW as beaches continue to be searched.”
• In Australia, the National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline is at 1800 250 015; families and friends can seek help at Family Drug Support Australia at 1300 368 186. In the UK, Action on Addiction is available on 0300 330 0659. In the US, call or text SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 988
