Police make Sydney Airport arrest over alleged baby formula syndicate

Police have charged five people in connection with a $1 million syndicate that allegedly stole baby formula around Sydney and sold it on the black market overseas.

Authorities launched an investigation into the syndicate in February last year after a string of thefts.

Australian Border Force (ABF) officers arrested a 31-year-old Carlingford man after he arrived at Sydney International Airport on a flight from China at about 10:30am on Saturday.

Officers searched the man’s luggage before arresting and charging him with two offences, including recklessly dealing with the proceeds of crime.

He was granted conditional bail at Parramatta Bail Court yesterday and is due to appear in court again on January 30.

NSW Police also searched two homes in Carlingford in August last year and seized 4,000 tins of baby formula, vitamins, manuka honey and more than $250,000 of cash.

A 48-year old woman and a 35-year-old man were arrested in connection with the search.

Police also arrested a 53-year-old man and a 29-year-old woman in the past two months, and charged them with dealing with the proceeds of crime.

Detective Superintendent Daniel Doherty said investigations would continue.

“This has been a meticulous investigation,” he said.

“Police will continue to pursue those who seek to make a quick buck at the disadvantage of others and will always strive to stamp out unscrupulous activity.”