‘Asian El Chapo’ Tse Chi Lop faces court, suppression order granted

Tse Chi Lop appears via video link at a Melbourne court, with the remainder of proceedings suppressed after an AFP request.

Chi Lop Tse has been charged by the AFP after being extradited from the Netherlands. Picture: AFP

One of the world’s most wanted alleged drug lords – the so-called “Asian El Chapo’’ Tse Chi Lop – has faced the Melbourne Magistrates court.

With silver hair and black glasses, Tse initially appeared via video link at the morning hearing that started about 10:45am on Thursday.

His Cantonese translator confirmed he could see and hear the proceedings.

After the matter was stood down for about half an hour from 11:15, Tse then appeared in person.

Before he entered the dock, a security checked the door to the courtroom could not be opened.

Tse was handcuffed as he was escorted in by two security guards.

Tse made no application for bail and his lawyer requested his next appearance be heard on February 16 alongside that of his co-accused.

Prosecutor Grace Krutsch and Tse’s barrister Paul Smallwood agreed on the next court date.

Mr Smallwood requested his client see a nurse when he is remanded.

Mr Tse faced Melbourne Magistrates Court. Picture: AFP

“It might it be noted that Mr Tse see a nurse as soon as (practical). He does take medication for high blood pressure,” he said.

“There will be no application for bail. There is a co-accused who has previously been charged. Dates (are) sought to align with the co-accused proceeding.”

Appearing on behalf of the AFP, commissioner James Forsaith requested future proceedings in the matter be suppressed.

Magistrate Martin Grinberg granted the order, and said there was a “real and substantive risk” to the proper administration of justice if he did not.

“I will grant the order and make the order now,” he said.