A man accused of bringing more than 20 kilograms of methamphetamine into Australia in his hand luggage has appeared in court.
The Taiwanese national, 27, was questioned by Australian Border Force (ABF) officers at Sydney International Airport after arriving on a flight from Thailand on Tuesday.
ABF officers searched his luggage and reportedly found 21.2 kilos of methamphetamine hidden in wine bottles, herbal teas and bath salts.
According to the Australian Federal Police, the man was planning to visit Australia for five days.
The Taiwanese national, 27, was questioned by Australian Border Force (ABF) officers at Sydney International Airport after arriving on a flight from Thailand on Tuesday
ABF officers searched his luggage and reportedly found 21.2 kilos of methamphetamine hidden in wine bottles, herbal teas and bath salts
AFP Sydney Airport Police Commander Morgen Blunden said law enforcement was committed to eradicating crime at the airport.
“Despite all the risks involved, we still arrest people who try to bring illegal drugs into our country through our airports,” he said.
“No matter how extensive or creative the efforts, the AFP and our partners work tirelessly to prevent airports from being used as part of the criminal supply chain.”
ABF Travel East commander Rosemaree Cracknell also warned passengers to push their luck Border Patrol agents are always watching.
“Syndicates continue to devise various ways to smuggle illicit drugs into Australia, with this example under the guise of legitimate food and alcohol products,” she said.
“Our ABF officers are exceptionally skilled at identifying and interrogating travelers who may be attempting to import illegal substances into our country.
“Methamphetamine continues to destroy Australian families, the ABF will continue to work with our state and federal partners to prevent this dangerous illegal drug from crossing the border.”
He was arrested and later charged with importing a commercial quantity of a border-controlled drug, which carries a maximum sentence of life behind bars
The 27-year-old appeared at Downing Center Local Court on Wednesday and was refused bail
The 27-year-old was arrested and later charged with importing a commercial quantity of a border-controlled drug, which carries a maximum sentence of life behind bars.
The man appeared at Downing Center Local Court on Wednesday and was refused bail.
He is expected to appear before the same court again in May.
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