One of the most prominent players in Australia’s cocaine importation has been detained in the Middle East.
First reported by the Herald Sun, senior Hells Angel Angelo Pandeli is believed to have been picked up in Dubai in the last 24 hours.
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It is unknown at this stage whether Pandeli will be charged or held.
The 52-year-old is considered one of Australia’s most wanted men, playing a significant part in the importation of cocaine and methamphetamine into the country.
The news comes just days before Pandeli was due to head to Cancun for a Hells Angels gathering with bikies based in Canada, Thailand, Russia and eastern Europe.
It was understood the meet, kicking off on September 5, would also attract members of other gangs wanting to do business with the Hells Angels.
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In 2018, he left Australia and settled in Dubai, where he had stints in Europe and Asia. He has been monitored closely by authorities.
Dubai is a common destination for many high-profile Australian crime figures, with Pandeli and others settling down in the desert city with their families,
Back in 2021, the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission said Pandeli was involved in the syndicate, bringing up to $1.5 billion of drugs into Australia every year.