Queensland superyacht tour operator extradited over diver cocaine death

A superyacht tour operator has been extradited to NSW and will front court over his alleged involvement in the cocaine diver saga.

The superyacht tour operator accused of having a role in importing more than $20 million of cocaine found near a diver dead earlier this week has been extradited to NSW.

James “Jimmy” Blake Blee was arrested at Cairns Airport in Queensland on Wednesday, allegedly trying to flee the country and board a flight to Singapore.

He was later charged with importing a commercial quantity of border-controlled drug and supplying a prohibited drug more than large commercial quantity.

James Blake Blee was escorted through the Cairns domestic airport terminal by Queensland Police before he was extradited to New South Wales. Picture: Brendan Radke

The superyacht tour operator was arrested at the North Queensland airport allegedly trying to flee the country on a flight to Singapore on Wednesday evening.

The 62-year-old, who was denied police bail, is expected to front Parramatta Bail Court on Saturday over the allegations.

Strike Force Groove detectives successfully applied for Mr Blee’s extradition to NSW at Cairns Magistrates Court on Friday.

The accused was then escorted on a flight to Sydney and taken to Mascot Police Station where the charges were laid against him.

He is due to front court today over the allegations. Picture: Brendan Radke

His extradition stems from an investigation into a suspected drug mule that had drowned while trying to smuggle about 54 kilograms of cocaine to shore near the Port of Newcastle. Picture: Peter Lorimer

The task force was established by Organised Crime Squad detectives after the diver’s body and 54kg of cocaine were found near the Port of Newcastle at about 9.30am on Monday.

Investigations into the death and the drugs are ongoing, with NSW Police looking to identify a man and a woman they believe could help with their inquires.

The man has been described as being of South American appearance, about 178cm tall and with an athletic build.

The woman is believed to be about 150-160cm tall, have a thin build, and a tanned complexion with blonde or grey hair.

Anyone with information that may assist investigators is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or go online.

Organised Crime Squad detectives released the images of two people who they believe can assist with their investigation. Picture: Supplied/ NSW Police

Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or go online. Picture: Supplied/ NSW Police