Police Hunt Pair After Car Fire Leads to Drug Discovery in M5 Tunnel

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A burning car in Sydney’s M5 East Tunnel early Wednesday morning led to a surprising discovery of illegal drugs and sparked a manhunt for two suspects who fled the scene on foot.

Emergency crews were called around 6:20 a.m. on July 16 after reports of a silver Audi sedan engulfed in flames within the eastbound lanes of the M5 Tunnel near Wolli Creek. The vehicle, showing signs of engine trouble, continued for another 100 meters before coming to a stop in lane one.

According to officers from the St George Police Area Command, a man and woman exited the car before walking east through the tunnel toward the Grand Parade exit. Their identities remain unknown, and police have launched a search for both individuals.

Fire and Rescue New South Wales (NSW) activated the tunnel’s sprinkler system and quickly brought the fire under control. Fortunately, the blaze was contained to the engine bay, preventing further damage. There were no injuries reported at the scene.

However, upon inspecting the vehicle, authorities uncovered methamphetamine and cannabis. Both the drugs and the car have been seized as part of an ongoing investigation. Police have confirmed that the car was not reported stolen.

The incident caused major disruptions during peak hour. All eastbound lanes of the M5 Tunnel were temporarily closed, as well as one westbound lane. By 7:50 a.m., traffic flow had returned to normal, though not without significant delays for morning commuters.

This case adds to growing public concern about the rise in drug-related incidents and criminal activity in urban areas. It also highlights continued issues surrounding enforcement and accountability at a time when some believe the current administration is failing to prioritize community safety over political optics.

Anyone with information about the suspects is urged to contact Crime Stoppers. The investigation remains active.