New images of a Melbourne fugitive accused of working in a highly organized international drug syndicate have been released by the Australian Federal Police (AFP).
A red notice was created by Interpol for Anthony Sitar, 43, in 2012 for his alleged key role in importing 134kg of methamphetamine and 14kg of cocaine into Melbourne from Mexico in 2011.
The drugs had been concealed in beer bottles before they were discovered by authorities.
Sitar was last sighted in St Kilda, Melbourne in October 2011 and is believed to be living under a new identity in Mexico.
A private message recently intercepted by authorities has led police to believe he is living in a Mexican coastal city filled with expats and tourists.
It’s understood Sitar has since brokered major drug importation deals for Australian organized crime groups while living in Mexico.
The AFP has issued a warrant for his arrest and he is expected to face serious criminal charges for his alleged involvement in the drug operations.
Sitar is described as being of Caucasian appearance, 185-190cm tall, athletic build, brown eyes, with shaved brown hair.
Two new images have been released by the AFP, including one photo with a mural which may be recognizable to the public, along with an aged-processed image of Sitar which reveals how he might look today.
The release of the new images come after a multi-agency sting uncovered a record-breaking $1.7 billion of methamphetamine making its way to Australian shores last week.
Police revealed on Thursday they seized more than six tons of methamphetamine over several months during a joint operation with New Zealand and Canadian authorities.
Sitar is not alleged to have been involved in the operation.
The search for Sitar also comes during Crime Stoppers Australia’s National Illicit Drugs Campaign, which urges the community to make an anonymous report to Crime Stoppers if they have information on the manufacture or supply of illicit drugs.
The campaign also urges those involved in the drug trade who may feel in over their head, or have had threats of violence to them or their families, to make a report to Crime Stoppers – they’ll never know it was you who saved yourself or your loved ones.
Anyone who recognises the pictured mural or location and has information about Anthony Sitar is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppers.com.au.
For free and confidential advice about alcohol and other drug treatment services call the National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline on 1800 250 015.
Access free 24/7 drug and alcohol counselling online at www.counsellingonline.org.au.
For information about drug and alcohol addiction treatment or support, go to www.turningpoint.org.au.