Full Breakdown
Scottish Couple Charged Over Multi-Million-Dollar Ketamine Haul in Sydney
7/28/2026, 3:44:26 AM
The Arrest and Seizure
New South Wales police seized more than 100 kg of ketamine after raiding a North Sydney hotel. The drugs were found packed in the boot of a rental car used by 30-year-old Jack Farrelly and 23-year-old Demi McDaid, both British nationals. Police also recovered several mobile phones, documents described as drug ledgers, and about A$2,000 in cash. The pair were taken into custody and later charged with two counts of supplying a prohibited drug—one exceeding an indictable quantity and one exceeding a commercial quantity.
Background & Context
Detectives say the operation relied on short-term accommodation rentals to avoid detection.
Data & Statistics
- Ketamine seized: 105 kg / 107 kg – both described as “more than 100 kg.”
- Additional seizure at a unit on Hampden Road, Artarmon: 2 kg of ketamine.
- Cash recovered: ? A$2,000 (? £1,051).
- Estimated street value: AUD $11 million (? £5.7 million).
Official Statements & Responses
- “We are supporting two British nationals detained in Australia and are in contact with the local authorities.” — The UK foreign office
- The force added that investigations into any additional participants are ongoing.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- Arrest date: BBC reports the arrest occurred on 29 June, while Daily Record states it happened on 26 June.
- Next court appearance: BBC lists a scheduled appearance on 26 August at Downing Centre Local Court; Daily Record cites 25 August for the same hearing.
- The precise quantity of ketamine varies between 105 kg and 107 kg.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We are supporting two British nationals detained in Australia and are in contact with the local authorities.” — The UK foreign office
- “We have seen this before in short stays and encourage property owners to be wary. People staying in hotels and Airbnbs, we see a lot of illegal activities come and go through those places. Stuff out of the ordinary that doesn’t look right... if it doesn’t look right, it probably isn’t.” — Australia. She
What’s Next
Both Farrelly and McDaid remain in custody pending a further hearing at Downing Centre Local Court in late August (date varies between sources). The outcome will determine whether they face additional charges or sentencing for the large-scale drug supply.
