Four individuals have been identified and charged in relation to an alleged drug syndicate in Melbourne, following a series of busts that authorities claim involved over $6 million worth of illicit substances. The charges come as Keahn Jeremaia, 25, a former suburban footballer, faces potential life imprisonment if convicted on charges of trafficking a large commercial quantity of methamphetamine.
Blake Chan-Gomara, 27, Mikaela McEwan, Mickeal Hagos, 28, and Alysha Mokotua were arrested by the North West Metro Regional Crime Squad on April 2 at a Williams Landing property. Investigators allege that during this raid, they seized approximately 25 kilograms of methamphetamine, 11 kilograms of MDMA, and 11 kilograms of ketamine, with a combined street value of $5 million. A small quantity of cocaine and cannabis, along with $500,000 in cash, a machete, electronic devices, and steroids, were also reportedly recovered.
Chan-Gomara faces multiple charges, including trafficking commercial quantities of methamphetamine, MDMA, ketamine, and cocaine, as well as dealing with the proceeds of crime. Hagos remains in custody with Chan-Gomara, while McEwan and Mokotua have been granted bail. A 28-year-old woman from Minto, Sydney, was also arrested in connection with the raid but was released pending further investigation.
These arrests are linked to a separate alleged syndicate bust that occurred on March 26 in Diamond Creek. Keahn Jeremaia was apprehended at a Diamond Creek property, where police allege they found 11 kilograms of methamphetamine with an estimated street value of $1.1 million. Scales and a money counter were also reportedly seized. Jeremaia, who previously worked as a concreter and played for the Diamond Creek Football and Netball Club, is currently on remand.
While police have presented the two events as dual syndicate busts, the specific connection between the Williams Landing and Diamond Creek operations remains unclear. Inspector Geoff Owen of the North West Metro Regional Crime Squad stated in April that the combined seizures represented a significant effort to remove over 35 kilograms of harmful substances from the community.
Jeremaia is scheduled to appear in court again on July 30. The other four suspects are expected to return to court in August. Defense lawyers for Jeremaia have indicated that the matter is expected to be resolvable, though he remains in custody.