A 32-year-old Japanese man has faced Perth Magistrates Court after allegedly attempting to import 9kg of methamphetamine, valued at over $8 million, into Australia.
AFP Detective Acting Inspector Tom Blakeley highlighted the determination of law enforcement to combat drug trafficking.
“Despite all the risks involved, we are still regularly arresting people who have attempted to bring illicit drugs into our country through our airports.”
Australian Border Force (ABF) officers reportedly detected the drugs on Saturday, 21 December, after selecting the man for a baggage examination upon his arrival at Perth Airport from New Zealand.
An x-ray of his suitcases revealed anomalies, and an ABF detector dog gave a positive reaction to the luggage. Further inspection allegedly uncovered white powder concealed within packages of powdered food products. Preliminary testing confirmed the substance was methamphetamine.
ABF Acting Superintendent John Sweet emphasised the relentless efforts of officers, especially during the holiday season.
“Our officers are working 24/7, including across the Christmas and New Year period, to detect and seize dangerous illegal imports,” Sweet said.
“We will use all available intelligence, skills, and technology to disrupt the efforts of greedy criminals whose only thought is lining their pockets.”
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) arrested and charged the man with importing a commercial quantity of a border-controlled drug, a crime under section 307.1 of the Criminal Code Act 1995 (Cth), which carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
The methamphetamine could have been sold as nearly 90,000 street deals, according to authorities.
Refused bail, the accused is scheduled to reappear at Perth Magistrates Court on 13 January, 2025.
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