ANOM encrypted app: Picture message allegedly ties Sydney man to cannabis operation

Police allege a Sydney father-of-six was using the handle “Joker” on the ANOM encrypted messaging app to co-ordinate the movement of cannabis across state borders, with a picture of bedsheets allegedly linking him through the compromised app.

A pair of striped bedsheets has allegedly tied a father-of-six to the global sting on encrypted and compromised messaging app, ANOM.

Mohammed Yaghi was granted bail in Parramatta Bail Court on Saturday after being charged with conspiracy to traffic more than 230kg of cannabis between South Australia and NSW and deal with proceeds of crime.

The Australian Federal Police (AFP) allege Yaghi, from Edmondson Park in Sydney, was using the handle “Joker” on the messaging app to co-ordinate the movement of cannabis across state borders earlier this year.

It is alleged police seized on a photograph sent on the app, which was secretly infiltrated by law enforcement, that showed striped bedsheets and furniture in the background.

When the AFP raided Yaghi’s home a month ago, officers alleged they located similar bedding and furniture.

“The images sent by Joker appear to be taken from Mr Yaghi’s house,” the police prosecutor told the court on Saturday.

The prosecutor alleged Yaghi used ANOM to provide instructions on ensuring the quality of cannabis buds, discuss a $90,000 payment for 12kg of the drug and arrange the movement of $60,000 on behalf of suppliers based in South Australia.

However, defence barrister Greg James QC said police raided Yaghi’s home a month ago and found no evidence connecting him to alleged conspiracy.

No images of the allegedly incriminating bedding or furniture were taken by police either, he argued.

“ … the allegation of striped sheets suggest the Crown case is a circumstantial case, is not a strong case so far as the identification of him as Joker,” Mr James said.

The court heard Yaghi, who was receiving the JobKeeper payment, was the sole provider for his wife and six children, including a child with a heart condition.

He was granted strict conditional bail, which included a $100,000 surety, and the case was adjourned to Bankstown Local Court in September.

Outside court, his lawyer Fadi Abbas said he would defend the charges.

“My client is extremely pleased to have been granted bail and can return to be with his wife and children,” he said.