Raids worldwide as police reveal vast hack of criminal encryption platform

SYDNEY — International law enforcement agencies on Tuesday revealed a vast three-year global operation to infiltrate an encryption platform popular among criminal groups, resulting in hundreds of arrests worldwide.

Unveiling the "world's most sophisticated" sting, law enforcement from New Zealand, Australia, the United States and Europe revealed they had access to the supposedly secure 'AN0M' platform for years.

Forces monitored as members of the mafia, Asian crime syndicates and outlaw motorcycle gangs discussed drug deals, money laundering and even gangland hits, resulting in hundreds of arrests.

The Australian Federal Police said that in that country alone, a total of 224 people were now facing more than 500 charges while six underground drug labs were shut down and firearms and Aus$45 million (US$35 million) in cash was seized.

"We allege they are members of outlaw motorcycle gangs, Australian mafia, Asian crime syndicates and serious and organised crime groups," federal police commissioner Reece Kershaw said.

"We allege they've been trafficking illicit drugs into Australia at an industrial scale."

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the operation "has struck a heavy blow against organised crime — not just in this country, but one that will echo around organized crime around the world".

New Zealand Police said it was the "world's most sophisticated law enforcement action against organized crime to date".

Detective superintendent Greg Williams said 35 people had been arrested across the country on 900 "serious drug dealing, money laundering and other conspiracy-type charges" and were due to appear in court Tuesday.

Police in New Zealand seized methamphetamine, firearms, and millions of dollars in cash and assets during the operation.

"Warrants are coming in and we expect a number of other arrests to be undertaken," Williams told reporters in Auckland.

More arrests were also expected to be announced around the world, Australian police said.