Launched 21 May on LiSTNR, Behind the White Line is a gripping six-part investigative documentary series that exposes the depth of Australia’s cocaine epidemic and the fractured law enforcement effort trying to stop it.
Produced by The West Australian the series explores how Australia has become the world’s biggest user of cocaine per capita. With the drug as accessible as food on a delivery app, the country is now the premier destination for international crime syndicates and Mexican cartels seeking record-breaking profits.
Hosted by multi-award-winning investigative journalist Richard Baker, and published on LiSTNR’s Secrets We Keep feed, the series takes listeners deep inside an audacious $1 billion sting operation. From the DEA (Drug Enforcement Agency) and West Australian state police dumping fake bricks of cocaine 70 kilometres off the Perth coast to the explosive turf wars between the AFP, the DEA and West Australian police, Baker reveals a system in conflict while cartels remain united.
“This collaboration with The West Australian has allowed us to look deep into a story that starts on the shores of WA but has massive national and international implications. We’re at a point where cocaine use is almost normalised in Australia, but there is a dark, complex trail that leads to those cubicles. While the cartels are working together with lethal efficiency, our own law enforcement agencies are locked in a fierce turf war. That friction gives the cartels a deadly advantage,” said Richard Baker.
“Behind the White Line is a powerful example of the kind of journalism The West Australian is committed to, deep, rigorous reporting that holds up to scrutiny and serves the public interest. This investigation plays to our strengths across multiple platforms, combining the authority of our newsroom with the reach and immediacy of audio to bring a complex national story to life,” said Christopher Dore, The West Australian editor in chief.
“Behind the White Line is a masterclass in investigative storytelling and a testament to the strength of our partnership with The West Australian. Richard Baker has uncovered a narrative that is as thrilling as it is sobering, shedding light on the scale of the cartels’ reach into Australia. Fresh off the back of the hugely successful Dezi Freeman: The Hunt miniseries, the Secrets We Keep podcast feed is Australia’s home for quality investigative journalism, and true crime stories,” added Clair Weaver, LiSTNR head of factual.
Listeners can also dive keeper into the investigation with exclusive reports, analysis and extended coverage available on thewest.com.au.
New episodes drop every Thursday on the free LiSTNR app.
