Cracking Mafia’s tomato tin drug scheme: Mark Ainsworth Pt.1
Tomato tins stuffed with 15 million ecstasy pills landed in the hands of retired detective Mark Ainsworth. The $750 million haul became the world’s biggest drug bust.
True Crime Australia
Bonus episode 3: Colombia – seized and stolen again
Stephen Drill talks to Richard McColl about living and working at the centre of the global cocaine trade.
Bonus episode 2: Question Time
Cocaine Inc. hosts Fiona, David and Stephen answer your questions about the drug business and how they made the series.
Bonus episode: The Artist
Stephen Mee, a former cocaine trafficker who worked with the Cali Cartel, sits down to discuss how he built an illicit empire.
Latest True Crime
Hunt for six protesters accused of causing chaos outside military expo
Police have identified a third person they were seeking after last month’s volatile Land Forces protests, while the hunt continues for six more.
Fake Swift tickets, puppies: Aussie scam hotspots revealed
Scammers are targeting Aussies in alarming new ways, fleecing them of money. See which suburbs are being targeted, how to spot a scam and how to protect yourself.
Inside story of how police caught suspected Easey St killer
The head of the operation to track accused double murderer Perry Kouroumblis has revealed how the long-awaited arrest unfolded at Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci Airport.
Twisted teen killer stabbed to death in prison
A twisted killer who was serving a three-decade jail sentence for the violent slaying of a 16-year-old boy has been stabbed to death in prison.
Madeleine McCann suspect’s chilling jailhouse ‘confession’
The suspect in the disappearance of Madeleine McCann allegedly confessed to his prison cellmate. See what he said.
High level Hells Angels join forces as new underworld race emerges
More details have emerged of how Hells Angels boss Angelo Pandeli planned to expand his network before being detained, as a new underworld race is on to find his insider on Sydney’s docks.
Lone Wolf bikie kingpin nabbed in dramatic global sting
Australian Jordan Curry, who worked with conspirators to keep drug prices high and bring cocaine and meth to Sydney and Melbourne, has pleaded guilty after being caught in a global sting.
‘Powerful drug’ Aussie bikie gangs want nothing to do with
Police are scrambling to remove a drug 100 times more powerful than heroin off our streets after a Melbourne couple died taking what they thought was cocaine.
What Aussies pay for coke now as drug use hits record high
A surge in supply has supercharged Australia’s cocaine use despite the cost of living crisis. This is what drug users pay and who’s buying it.
What fast-tracked trial means for accused mushroom killer
In another dramatic twist, Erin Patterson has opted to forgo a major step in the legal process, instead heading straight to trial in the Supreme Court. Here’s what it means for the accused mushroom cook.
The top lawyers fighting to free accused mushroom cook killer
Accused triple murderer Erin Patterson has hired two of Australia’s top legal minds to run her defence. Here is why they’re seen as some of the best in the business.
‘We’re not cult-like’ How staying silent cost town at centre of mushroom meal
The town of Korumburra was unwittingly thrust into the spotlight in the wake of the deadly mushroom meal. But the decision to stay tight-lipped took an unexpected toll on locals.
‘Horrendous’ final moments of mushroom lunch victims
Erin Patterson’s in-laws likely spent their final moments writhing in agony as they succumbed to the death cap mushrooms allegedly inside their beef wellington lunch, a toxicologist has revealed.
‘Appalling and shocking’ racism in police forces, inquiry finds
An almost three-year federal probe has found Indigenous women and children are being murdered at shocking rates, with its harrowing findings finally released.
Another major accolade for the Tiser’s Dying Rose podcast
The Advertiser’s Walkley Award-winning podcast has taken home another top gong against some of the country’s best audio productions.
Bombshell moments from Dying Rose podcast
Six deaths. One national shame. Compelling true crime podcast Dying Rose follows a team of reporters as they piece together the untold story of how the authorities react to the deaths of Aboriginal women and girls. These are the bombshell moments from Dying Rose.
Dying Rose short-listed for Walkley
A team of journalists from The Advertiser have been named finalists in a string of prominent awards for compelling storytelling.
Drug lords behind Australia’s meth supply chain arrested
The Sinaloa cartel boss and El Chapo’s son, who play a huge role in the illicit drug trade on our streets, are now in custody.
AN0M app bust: What’s next after 62 convictions
Criminals using the “secret” AN0M app have been sentenced to three centuries of jail time, with dozens of cases still to hit court. See some of them who’ve been convicted.
Hells Angels’ cunning move to take Comanchero drug trade
The Hells Angels are preparing to take over Australia’s wholesale international drug trade after the arrest of Comanchero kingpin Hakan Ayik in Turkey. This is what’s afoot.
Aussie drug kingpin and bikie broker’s cunning move
An Australian fugitive on the run for a decade in Mexico, who is a key drug broker for bikie gangs, is suspected of taking a dramatic step to avoid capture.
New suspects, witnesses emerge in cold cases
“Legitimate and credible” clues have emerged after The Missing Australia’s inquiries into some of Australia’s most shocking cold cases. See what they are and listen to the whole series.
How a surprise meeting could unlock 51-year-old cold case
It’s a mystery that has endured for decades – but a shock encounter in a tattoo parlour has revealed an incredible behind-the-scenes struggle to find Kirste Gordon and Joanne Ratcliffe.
How snap bus strike changed missing Rhianna’s destiny
An ex-detective can’t get the abduction of Rhianna Barreau, 12, out of his mind. Listen to The Missing Australia podcast to see why, decades on, he thinks the case can still be solved.
Inside the final resting place of Sydney’s lost souls
They are the forgotten and unclaimed, buried in cemeteries across Australia. Dozens of lost souls, some given a pauper’s burial, others whose deaths have gone unnoticed in unmarked graves.
Hillsong loses $100k a week amid ATO investigation
The crippling finances have been exposed in new financial documents, with the Christian megachurch losing an eye-watering $5 million in just one year.
Hillsong twist as Brian Houston starts new church
The megachurch is making a major change to its complaints process amid a tax office investigation into whistleblower documents that was examined in Faith on Trial podcast.
ATO probes Hillsong fraud claims
The Christian megachurch is being investigated by the Australian Taxation Office’s private wealth team over leaked financial records.
Moment I saw myself standing next to a Hillsong paedo
Award-winning journalist Marc Fennell has revealed his mixed — and deeply personal — feelings on the controversial Hillsong, and how he found a photo that he thought never existed.
How I can get your child into my car in less than 60 secs
Scarily, we now live in an era where a new level of stranger danger lurks, writes Madeleine West. See what you can do to protect your child.
How TV star caught sick pedo on TikTok
After she found out a young girl was being followed on TikTok by a man, Madeleine West discovered something shocking that led her straight to the federal police.
‘Every parent’s worst nightmare’: What Aussie star said to abuser
Former Neighbours star Madeleine West has revealed what she told the “monster” who sexually abused her for years. Read her victim impact statement.
‘I handed them evidence’: How cops miss abused Aussie kids
Vital clues that could lead to young sexual abuse victims are being overlooked – but an unlikely source could help bring paedophiles to justice. See how.
One thing Kathleen Folbigg can’t do anymore
In a sneak peek of a TV documentary, Kathleen Folbigg is happy, relaxed and surrounded by love. But, while she enjoys freedom after 20 years behind bars, it’s clear she still has a long way to go.
Folbigg’s common link with Lindy Chamberlain
Kathleen Folbigg and Lindy Chamberlain have shared a rare connection of murder convictions and acquittals that have captured, reviled and divided the nation.
Diaries of a ‘depressed mother’
Kathleen Folbigg’s diaries belonged to a ‘grieving, depressed mother’, a chief justice has found, as she was granted an unconditional pardon and released from prison.
‘Dismayed, devastated’: Folbigg’s ex-husband upset
Kathleen Folbigg’s ex-husband Craig, who gave evidence against her, was “absolutely dismayed and devastated” that there was a further inquiry, according to his lawyer.
Dangers of prison no one talks about: Shane Rattenbury Pt.2
ACT Attorney General Shane Rattenbury joins Gary Jubelin to discuss everything from reducing family violence, the $198,000 cost to keep inmates and why he won’t criminalise coercive control.
Deadly whale crusader to powerful law maker: Shane Rattenbury Pt.1
ACT Attorney General Shane Rattenbury is working to reduce prison populations and make communities safer and break the crime fighting cycle.
How Roger Rogerson got away with murder: Neil Mercer Pt.1
eteran crime journalist Neil Mercer reveals the downfall of Roger Rogerson, and his friendship with notorious gangster Neddy Smith.
Ex bikie boss exposes truth of underworld: Jay Malkoun Pt.2
Ex bikie boss Jay Malkoun should have died when his car exploded into a deadly fireball. Malkoun joins Gary Jubelin to relive the moment he survived an attempted assassination.
More True Crime
‘I’m sick, not a sex criminal’: Model’s extraordinary court claim
She sexually abused a boy, 16, for two years, but this model and actor says a previously undiagnosed mental illness is truly to blame.
Samantha Murphy search called off, no items found
The latest police search for the remains of missing Ballarat mum Samantha Murphy, targeting dense bushland in the Enfield State Park, has been called off with no items recovered.
Complex task returning Easey St murders suspect to Melbourne
Accused killer Perry Kouroumblis has appeared before an Italian court and sources in Italy’s border control office say plans to transport him back to Australia are already underway.
‘Dial-a-dealer’ mum caught with drugs in car — and kids in back seat
A Sydney “dial-a-dealer’ mum has been caught selling cocaine and ecstasy out of her car on a Saturday night, with her three small children sitting in the back seat.
Chilling update in bucks party rape case
A groom has failed to show any remorse after he gang raped three teenagers during his bucks party weekend, a court has been told.
Chilling update in bucks party rape case
A groom has failed to show any remorse after he gang raped three teenagers during his bucks party weekend, a court has been told.
Charges after teens’ alleged 1700km stolen car crime spree
Three teens found sleeping in stolen cars at a Gold Coast McDonald’s have been arrested after an alleged break-and-enter spree from Melbourne to Brisbane.
Dan ‘intended to place fault on the cyclist’
An expert review has painted a picture of the likely cause of the near-fatal collision and highlighted a major contradiction in Daniel Andrews’ version of events.
‘Cover-up’: Review’s explosive findings on Dan’s crash with cyclist
A bombshell review by a former police assistant commissioner says Daniel and Catherine Andrews’ crash with a teenage cyclist was covered up “to avoid implicating a political figure”.
Major changes at Aussie airports to stop crims hiding drugs
Australian airports are changing to stop criminals bringing in lethal drugs, and catch them in the act before they get off the plane. See the video.
Disgraced Indigenous leader highlights Nelson Mandela link
Geoff Clark’s lawyer says his client’s dealings with world leaders such as Nelson Mandela showcase his good character and should help reduce his punishment as he faces jail for stealing almost $1 million from Aboriginal groups.
New Aussie drink-spiking test revealed
Following a surge of drink-spiking cases in Australia, a new test has been created to help protect Aussies. Watch the video to see how it works.
Aussie girl’s alleged attacker appears in UK court
A man charged with the attempted murder of 11-year-old Aussie girl Laila Johnson, who was stabbed eight times in London’s Leicester Square, has appeared in court.
Fresh charge for 16-year-old accused of killing motorcyclist in Preston
The teen boy, who remains on bail, has been hit with an added charge after he was allegedly behind the wheel of a stolen car that hit and killed 19-year-old motorcyclist Davide Pollina.
Woman accused of trying to sell dead man’s toe after it was swallowed by a dog
A Lilydale mum allegedly salvaged a human toe that a dog had swallowed and was planning to sell it on the black market.
‘Predatory’: Child abuse material hoarded off Russian site
A jail sentence is hanging over the head of a creep who confessed to accessing a Russian-hosted website to hoard child abuse material.
‘Pretty good shot’: Attacker stomped on unconscious victim’s head
One man who rendered another unconscious, before stomping on his head, boasted that he was ‘proud’ of how the victim ‘fell like a bucket of shit’.
Melbourne mafia figure locked in legal fight to avoid jail time in Italy
Frank Madafferi could face four years in prison in his home country if he cannot avoid deportation through a high-stakes court battle.
‘F***, we’ve got no gun’: Sole survivor of shooting speaks as family, friends wait for ‘justice’
The loved ones of three family members allegedly gunned down by a neighbour have told of their shock and vowed to be a ‘voice for the dead’. FULL COVERAGE, VIDEO, PHOTOS
Hells Angels in turmoil after arrest of most wanted Aussie kingpin
The Australian Hells Angels bikie gang will have a battle for control of the multi-billion dollar criminal enterprise after its leader was detained in Dubai.
‘Give me a tea’: Drunk mooned cops before urinating in cell
A Darlinghurst man made a bizarre demand and threatened to “s–t” in a police cell before urinating all over it, having earlier dropped his dacks.
Australia’s most wanted man, Hells Angel drug kingpin, nabbed in Dubai
Senior Hells Angel Angelo Pandeli — regarded as Australia’s most wanted man — has been detained in Dubai. It’s believed the accused international drug kingpin was headed to Cancun in Mexico.
Dusty’s uncle avoids being deported after proving he is Aboriginal
Dean Martin, the ex-Rebels bikie and uncle of Richmond superstar Dustin Martin, has walked free from immigration detention after scoring a major legal win.
Top Hells Angels bikies to plot Aussie drug imports
Hells Angels bikies from around the world, including Australian kingpin Angelo Pandeli, are expected to attend a celebration in Mexico where members will plot major drug imports.
Melbourne mafia figure Frank Madafferi set to be deported
The 63-year-old has been released from jail after serving a long sentence for high-level drug trafficking but is now in line to be deported to Italy.
How I fell victim to an investment scam that cost me $1m
Doug Wright survived a head-on crash only to fall victim to an investment scam, as crims use sophisticated tricks to con Aussies out of almost $3b a year. See how they do it. Watch the video.
‘Haunted’: Ex-councillor unleashed bloody assault on elderly godmother
The elderly grandmother who was violently attacked by a once promising local politician, after he smashed through her garage with a car before unleashing a bloodied assault, has told a court she worries she will never feel safe again.
‘Lucky to be alive’: Drink driver almost six times over limit
Bacon and eggs could not save a highly-regarded member of the Coffs Harbour community from recording a blood alcohol reading a magistrate had described as one of the highest she has seen.
‘Vicious’ attack ‘worst thing’ magistrate has seen
A teen getaway driver involved in the violent daylight abduction of a Glen Eira student and the horrifying bashing of another girl has been slammed for her “crocodile tears” as she faced sentencing.
Shooter hunted ex, tried to shoot her parents before turning gun on himself
A mother separating from her husband was seeking refuge at her parent’s western Sydney home when her ex-partner allegedly fired a gun at the family, before his body was discovered a short time later.
How I got ‘Chopper’ Read nude behind bars
Former prison officer Steve Bergervoet was just a rookie when he managed to get Mark ‘Chopper’ Read naked on his first day of work. Warning: Graphic
Prison slang quiz: What’s a peter thief?
Think you’ve got what it takes to talk like an inmate? As part of our new On Guard prison podcast series, we put your knowledge of jailhouse lingo to the test.
Prison slang quiz: What’s chicken soup?
Think you’ve got what it takes to talk like an inmate? As part of our new On Guard prison podcast series, we put your knowledge of jailhouse lingo to the test.
Massacre monster trades sex for chocolates
A prison officer who worked with Martin Bryant has revealed the serial killer is just a “big baby” and a nobody within the jail hierarchy. WARNING: Graphic
Elite squad to track elusive murderer and cold case fugitive
It’s been almost a year since a confirmed sighting of one of Queensland’s most wanted men, cold case fugitive and convicted murderer Keith Lees, and police are stepping up the hunt.
‘Last ray of hope’ snuffed out with no charges over crayfish farm shooting
The family of a young scientist shot dead while working at a crayfish farm say they lost their “last ray of hope” after an inquest failed to result in charges against two people named by a coroner.
Disappearance, taxi driver, deathbed confession: 40-year mystery set to end
For four decades it has been one of Queensland’s most enduring cold case murder mysteries but today the state coroner hands down the findings into the 1986 disappearance of Sharron Phillips.
‘Other secrets’: Bombshell Ivan Milat theory
It’s one of Australia’s most infamous cases but serial killer Ivan Milat still has more skeletons yet to emerge.
‘Living nightmare’: Family pain of Aussies killed in the Philippines
The family of an Australian couple found dead in a hotel room broke down as they revealed the cruelty behind the senseless murder the Philippines.
Scary way criminals are using GPS trackers
Almost half of all GPS trackers are going to buyers with nefarious backgrounds and many are allegedly used in high-profile cases including the alleged murder of bikie boss Alen Moradian.
New Gangitano and Melb ‘hitmen’ link to NCA bombing
A leaked memo has revealed how Melbourne’s most notorious “hitmen” can be linked to the NCA bombing in Adelaide after the ‘Black Prince of Lygon St’ met with an Italian Mafia don.
‘Wannabe gangster’: Who Domenic Perre really was
Domenic Perre was a criminal, who was also under surveillance by cops investigating Italian organised crime across NSW, Canberra, Melbourne and Adelaide.
TV actor turned terrorist walks free from jail
An actor who was arrested and convicted as part of Australia’s largest terrorism operation is a free man after serving over 18 years.
Judge scolds AFP over ankle bracelets
A surprising argument about electronic monitoring used by the AFP to deny people bail has been lambasted in court.
Sneaky tactic assassins use to rope in unsuspecting Aussies
Organised violence is becoming an increasingly professionalised industry and oblivious Australians are being dragged into crime. See how.
Secret texts, cashies, mystery exits: Inside colossal scandal that brought down Michael Bosscher
Michael Bosscher was a high-flying Brisbane lawyer with big name clients. But in the winter of 2016, a major scandal erupted that sent the George St rumour mill into overdrive and ended in his jailing. This is the inside story.
Original URL: https://www.thechronicle.com.au/truecrimeaustralia