Yasser Yassine charged after $500,000 allegedly seized during inner west Sydney raid
The Australian Federal Police officers allegedly seized half a million dollars, luxury gold watches and a gold bar from a Strathfield home which they claim is connected to a “sophisticated” transnational money laundering organisation.
Police & Courts
Don't miss out on the headlines from Police & Courts. Followed categories will be added to My News.
An alleged money launderer was charged after the Australian Federal Police raided his home in Sydney’s inner west and seized half a million dollars, luxury gold watches and a gold bar.
According to an AFP spokesperson, Yasser Yassine, 42, caught the attention of police after they suspected he was involved in a transnational money laundering organisation and affiliated with organised crime groups. The spokesperson said it is alleged Yassine was operating a money laundering operation where he dealt with the proceeds of crime.
Investigators searched Yassine’s home in Strathfield on 15 November, 2024, where they allegedly found $500,000 in dirty cash, five mobile phones, five luxury brand watches and a gold bar.
The man was arrested and charged with dealing with money and property suspected to be the proceeds of crime.
Yassine was granted bail at Downing Centre Local Court in November on the condition he report daily to police.
He was also ordered to hand in his passport to the AFP and not enter any airport or international point of departure.
The case returned to court on Tuesday where his solicitor successfully asked for his reporting conditions to be reduced to three times a week.
Speaking after the arrest, AFP Detective Acting Superintendent Luke Needham said money laundering undermined Australia’s national security, the economy and social security system.
“Money laundering syndicates are sophisticated, international groups with one purpose - to provide a shadow economy enabling more crime,’’ Det a/Supt Needham said.
“We will continue to seize illicit funds to disrupt organised crime syndicates from using those profits to fund other illegal ventures.”
The case was adjourned to Burwood Local Court in March.
Manhunt after armed duo storm Sydney home
Police are searching for two men who broke into a Terrey Hills home armed with a machete, injuring a 68-year-old man before fleeing the scene.
Read more
Neighbours praise unsung hero who discovered suspected terror caravan
An unassuming Dural resident has been spotted going about his business after he was credited with averting a potential mass-casualty event by securing the van and immediately handing it over to police.
Read more