A Western Sydney couple faced Downing Centre Local Court on 10 January 2025 after being charged with allegedly importing 10kg of heroin into Australia, hidden within their suitcases.
The 52-year-old man and 53-year-old woman, both from Canley Heights, were intercepted by Australian Border Force (ABF) officers at Sydney Airport upon their arrival from Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, on Thursday, 9 January.
A baggage inspection revealed abnormalities in the lining of two suitcases, with initial tests confirming the presence of heroin.
The pair were charged by Australian Federal Police (AFP) with importing a commercial quantity of a border-controlled drug under section 307.1(1) of the Criminal Code (Cth). They were remanded in custody and are scheduled to reappear in court on 12 March 2025.
AFP Detective Acting Superintendent Dom Stephenson estimated the heroin’s street value at $5 million, equivalent to approximately 50,000 street deals.
“Illicit drugs like heroin cause significant harm to users, their loved ones, and the wider Australian community,” he said.
“The AFP and our partners are committed to thwarting the international drug trade and preventing our airports from being used as part of the criminal supply chain.”
ABF Superintendent Elke West praised her officers’ vigilance, emphasising the importance of stopping such destructive substances from entering the country.
“Heroin is an incredibly destructive drug. It rips apart families and does untold damage to those trapped in its grip,” Supt West said.
“Our message is clear: whatever illicit substance criminals try to import, and however they try to hide it, we will detect it, and they will face significant penalties.”
The heroin seizure highlights the ongoing collaboration between Australian law enforcement agencies in targeting the international drug trade.
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