NSW solicitor allegedly caught in multimillion-dollar fraud, money laundering syndicate

Commander of the financial crimes squad, Detective Superintendent Gordon Arbinja, said the strike force’s arrest “sends a clear message that no role or qualification places anyone above the law”.

“Our investigators will continue to target individuals who abuse their professional standing to support criminal networks, and the community can expect further arrests of this nature as inquiries progress,” Superintendent Arbinja added.

Footage of the arrest is below:

Originally, police believed the syndicate was using personal information to apply for loans to purchase “ghost cars” that did not exist, but the investigation has since expanded into large-scale personal, business and home loan fraud against multiple institutions.

To date, 24 people have been charged and remain before the courts, and $95 million in assets have been restrained.

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Police will allege the lawyer used his position to purchase multiple mortgaged properties valued at more than $25 million under the names of various members of the syndicates.

He also allegedly laundered millions of dollars on their behalf.

With assistance from the Raptor Squad, search warrants were carried out at a location in Punchbowl and an office in Sydney’s CBD.

The solicitor was charged with six counts of dishonestly obtaining financial advantage etc by deception, five counts of knowingly dealing with proceeds of crime, and participating in a criminal group contributing to criminal activity.

He was refused bail to appear at Bankstown Local Court on Wednesday, 22 April.

Superintendent Arbinja said the strike force has targeted mules, facilitators, and financial professionals, including bankers, who have each played a role in enabling the criminal network.

NSW Crime Commission executive director Darren Bennett said the commission would continue to work closely with State Crime Command to ensure the ongoing success of Strike Force Myddleton.

“The commission is drawing on its full range of capabilities to drive further arrests and return criminal proceeds to the people of NSW.

“Yesterday’s arrest is another strong result, and we commend the financial crime squad for their work,” Bennett said.

Anyone with information that may assist investigations into organised criminal activity is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is managed on a confidential basis. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.