News Centre

This is a joint media release between the Australian Federal Police and Australian Border Force

Editor’s note: Image available via Hightail

A Japanese man appeared before Perth Magistrates Court yesterday (22 December, 2024) charged after allegedly importing 9kg of methamphetamine into Australia.

ABF officers allegedly detected the drugs on Saturday 21 December, 2024, after selecting the man, 32, for a baggage examination when he arrived at Perth Airport on a flight from New Zealand.

ABF officers conducted an x-ray of the man’s suitcases, which revealed anomalies. An ABF detector dog then gave a positive reaction to the baggage.

Upon further examination, ABF officers allegedly located white powder hidden inside packages of powdered food products. Initial substance testing revealed a positive result for methamphetamine. 

AFP officers attended the screening point and arrested and charged the man with one count of importing a commercial quantity of a border controlled drug, contrary to section 307.1 of the Criminal Code Act 1995 (Cth).

The offence carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.

This amount of methamphetamine could have been sold as almost 90,000 street deals with an estimated value of over $8 million.

He was refused bail and is expected to reappear at Perth Magistrates Court on 13 January, 2025.

AFP Detective acting Inspector Tom Blakeley said the AFP and its partners were committed to stamping out criminal syndicates before they crossed the border.

"Despite all the risks involved, we are still regularly arresting people who have attempted to bring illicit drugs into our country through our airports," Det. a/Insp Blakeley said.

"No matter how elaborate or creative the attempts are, the AFP and our partners are working tirelessly to prevent airports being used as part of the criminal supply chain."

ABF acting Superintendent John Sweet said ABF officers are relentless in their efforts to stop harmful substances from reaching the Australian community.

“Our officers are working 24/7, including across the Christmas and New Year period to detect and seize dangerous illegal imports,” Acting Superintendent 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.”

Note to media: 

Media are encouraged to include help-seeking information in stories about illicit drugs to minimise any negative impact on people in the community. The following services provide people with access to support and information. 

• For free and confidential advice about alcohol and other drug treatment services call the National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline on 1800 250 015. 

• Access free 24/7 drug and alcohol counselling online. 

• For information about drug and alcohol addiction treatment or support, go to the Turning Point website.