High-profile race horse owner Damion Flower has been charged over his alleged role in smuggling cocaine on commercial flights from South Africa.
The 47-year-old was arrested outside his south-western Sydney home in Moorebank yesterday and was charged as part of a sting targeting an alleged ring operating out of Sydney Airport.
Police claim the cocaine was smuggled into the country on commercial flights from South Africa.
It was then allegedly allowed on to Australian soil by a baggage handler and was transported from the airport by another man who then gave it to Mr Flower.
He is facing six charges of importing a commercial quantity of a border controlled drug, cocaine, from January this year through to yesterday.
The race horse owner looked calm in the dock when he briefly appeared in Liverpool Local Court today, as his lawyer Chris Watson indicated he would apply for bail next week.
Outside court Mr Watson said he was "sure" his client would plead not guilty.
Mr Flower has shares in more than 50 horses, including some of Australia's most prized stallions, and is one of 12 slot holders in The Everest.
Last month, Australian Federal Police (AFP) arrested a 42-year-old man near Sydney airport.
Police said they found 27 kilograms of vacuum-sealed packages, believed to be cocaine, in his car.
Yesterday baggage handler, To Oto O Junior Mafiti, 50, was arrested.
Police alleged the Sydney Airport employee was found with a bag with 28 kilograms of cocaine inside it.
About $8 million in cash was also seized at a Hoxton Park location linked to the 50-year-old man, police said.
He faced court today after being charged with importing a commercial quantity of prohibited drugs.
He did not apply for bail.
