Ep 9. Chinese Checkers

The show Water Rats follows the daily lives of a team of detectives within the Sydney Water Police, focusing on their investigations and the personal issues that arise amongst the team.

In season 5 episode 9, titled "Chinese Checkers," the team is confronted with a complex case involving the murky world of Chinese triads. A shipment of drugs worth millions of dollars is intercepted by the Water Rats during a routine patrol, leading them to suspect that a major drug deal is about to go down.

As they delve deeper into the investigation, the detectives discover that the triads are not only involved in drug trafficking but also in a range of other illegal activities, including money laundering and extortion. With the help of an informant, they manage to track down the head of the triad, a ruthless gangster known as Johnny Wu.

Meanwhile, the personal lives of the Water Rats begin to take centre stage, with conflicting priorities causing tensions amongst the team. Frank Holloway, the leader of the Water Rats, finds himself caught between his duties as a police officer and his loyalty to his old mate, who has become embroiled in the drugs trade. Meanwhile, Rachel Goldstein, the team's newest recruit, struggles to find a balance between her job and her relationship with her boyfriend.

As the investigation heats up, the team faces increasing danger, and the line between right and wrong becomes blurred. "Chinese Checkers" is a gripping episode, exploring themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the often complicated nature of police work. With a strong ensemble cast, intense action sequences, and a well-crafted plot, it's a standout episode in a series known for its gritty realism and thrilling storytelling.