Daniel Toutounji, 37, an alleged influential member of the Comanchero outlaw bikie gang, was arrested Friday morning at Sydney International Airport after eight years on the run. Police took Toutounji into custody following his arrival on a flight from Berlin.
Toutounji was one of New South Wales' most wanted individuals, sought on outstanding warrants for drug supply and dealing with the proceeds of crime. He faces charges including supplying a prohibited drug in a large commercial quantity, organizing or conducting a drug premises, knowingly and recklessly directing a criminal group, and knowingly dealing with the proceeds of crime.
His arrest is connected to a police raid on a unit in Randwick, Sydney, in April 2018. During that operation, authorities discovered 1 kilogram of cocaine, approximately $95,000 in cash, two machine pistols, three semi-automatic pistols, and a significant quantity of drug paraphernalia.
At the time of the 2018 raid, detectives identified two individuals believed to have left the country, and Toutounji was among them. The second man involved is thought to have fled to Thailand and subsequently the Middle East.
NSW Police Raptor Squad Detective Superintendent Andrew Koutsoufis stated that Toutounji was aware he was wanted for serious offenses in Australia. "It's a great result today to have him come back and face justice," Koutsoufis said. "I believe he was aware there was a very good chance he'd be arrested back in Sydney."
Koutsoufis also highlighted the collaboration between NSW Police, Commonwealth partners, and international law enforcement agencies in apprehending fugitives abroad. Police do not believe Toutounji remains affiliated with the Comancheros.
Toutounji was refused bail and was expected to appear in court on Friday.