Alleged cocaine dealer Hamzah Kouaider crashed into police car at Bondi Beach
An alleged cocaine dealer crashed into a police car after a pursuit in Bondi Beach which saw officers jump out of their vehicle and draw their guns, a court has heard.
Wentworth Courier
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NSW Police officers jumped out of their vehicle and drew their weapons when an alleged cocaine dealer crashed into their marked car following a dramatic Bondi Beach pursuit.
Hamzah Kouaider, from Merrylands, was refused bail at Parramatta Court on Saturday after being hit with a slew of charges following the incident on Friday night.
Police allege the 26-year-old was driving around Warners Ave, Bondi Beach, in a Toyota Corolla when officers tried to pull him over for parking in a no-stopping zone.
Police said Kouaider was given a random breath test at about 5.15pm, before he allegedly sped off, leading officers on a pursuit.
The chase came to an end on Roscoe St, when Kouaider allegedly did a U-turn in a cul-de-sac and crashed into a police car.
Officers said they got out with weapons drawn, before arresting the driver.
Kouaider was charged with police pursuit, dealing with proceeds of crime and participating in a criminal group contributing to criminal activity.
He was also charged with supplying a prohibited drug and supplying a prohibited drug on an ongoing basis.
Magistrate Michael Stoddart said the fact police drew their firearms “shows they were very concerned for their safety”.
The court heard officers searched Kouaider’s car, finding a phone and $2450 in cash, which they alleged were involved in the supply of cocaine.
In Parramatta Bail Court, the police prosecutor opposed bail and argued Kouaider put the community at risk during the dramatic chase.
Kouaider was motionless throughout the proceedings and stated: “I do deeply regret my actions.”
He was refused bail, with the case adjourned to March 5 at Waverley Court.
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