Scottish Couple Arrested in Sydney with 105 kg Ketamine Haul

New South Wales police arrested Jack Farrelly, 30, and his partner Demi McDaid, 23, on June 29 after raiding their North Sydney hotel room. A search of a rental car parked at the hotel uncovered 105 kg of a white powder believed to be ketamine, along with scales, disposable gloves, resealable bags containing white crystallised residue, and luggage. The pair were taken to Chatswood Police Station, denied bail on June 30, and remain in custody pending a court appearance scheduled for August 26 at Downing Centre Local Court.

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Investigators obtained a warrant after detecting an “alleged drug supply” in the area. Acting Crime Manager Detective Acting Inspector Alison Dixon noted that criminals increasingly use short-term rentals for drug operations, urging property owners to remain vigilant. Dixon added that the investigation combined “good old-fashioned police work” with technology to locate the suspects.

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• 105 kg of suspected ketamine seized from the car boot.

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• Approximately 2 kg of ketamine found inside the rented unit three days before the arrests.

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• Cash recovered: about $2,000 (? £1,051).

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• Both suspects were denied bail on June 30.

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• If convicted, they face a potential minimum sentence of 15 years and possible deportation.

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• “We are supporting two British nationals detained in Australia and are in contact with the local authorities.” — UK Foreign Office

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The case highlights law-enforcement concerns about the use of transient accommodation for large-scale drug distribution in Australia’s major cities. It also underscores diplomatic involvement, as the UK Foreign Office confirmed support for the two British nationals while cooperating with Australian authorities.

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