AFP outlines its Bali Nine role

AFP EXPLAINS ROLE IN BALI NINE ARRESTS

* An investigation into the drug syndicate was already underway before a tip-off from Scott Rush's father in 2005.

* In February 2005, police were aware of a syndicate that was actively recruiting couriers to import narcotics to Australia.

* They identified three people of interest, including Andrew Chan, in the first few weeks of the investigation.

* Members of the syndicate flew to Bali in the first week of April 2005 but police were not in a position to arrest any of the members before their departure from Australia because they didn't have enough information.

* Police deny promises were made to Scott Rush's father or lawyer that he would be stopped before travelling to Bali.

* Police were left with an incomplete picture and decided to ask Indonesia for its assistance in conducting surveillance.

* That decision was made in the full knowledge the Australians could be exposed to the death penalty.

* Myuran Sukumaran, who was unknown to police at the time, was picked up as part of the surveillance.

* Information gathered by Indonesia led to another six people being charged in Sydney and Brisbane.

(Source: Australian Federal Police)