Massive search as seven ‘cocaine’ blocks wash up on NSW beaches

Police have warned NSW residents to keep an eye out on our beaches after seven blocks of what police believe is cocaine were found washed up on the sand over two days — including one found at Manly.

It’s not just driftwood and sea shells which have been washing up on NSW beaches, with several blocks of what police believe is cocaine turning up on our shores in recent days — with concerns more could appear.

The first of seven packages was found at Magenta Beach about 8pm on Friday by a resident, who contacted police.

Investigators seized the barnacle-covered object and sent it away for testing, with results indicating the substance inside is cocaine.

A further three packages were found on Saturday after a crime scene was established and a wide-ranging search sparked, with officers from the from Northern Region Operational Support Group scouring the sand.

Packages were then found at Manly, Avoca and Blacksmiths beaches today as the search continued.

One of the blocks which has washed up on NSW beaches, which police believe contains cocaine. Picture: NSW Police

All the parcels, which so far have been found covered in barnacles and with thick plastic wrapping, have been sent away for further testing.

Volunteers from Surf lifesaving NSW are working closely with investigators to help search remaining beaches in the vicinity.

Police have urged residents to keep an eye out for any further packages.

Anyone who finds a package in the sand has been asked not to remove it or open it, and to call triple-0 immediately, while anyone who may have seen parcels similar to the ones found has been told to reach out to local police.

Originally published as Massive search as seven ‘cocaine’ blocks wash up on NSW beaches