Media Release
South Australian man charged with allegedly importing heroin into Adelaide in suitcase
This is a joint release between Australian Federal Police and Australian Border Force
Editor’s note: Images of the seizure and arrest available via Hightail.
An Australian-Afghan dual citizen faced the Adelaide Magistrates Court today (30 July, 2025) after allegedly attempting to import about 500g of heroin into Australia in his suitcase.
Using intelligence-led screening and officer intuition, Australian Border Force (ABF) officers targeted the man for a full baggage examination and searched his luggage after he arrived at Adelaide Airport yesterday (29 July, 2025) from overseas.
The officers allegedly identified a black fluid oozing from the handle of the man’s suitcase. A presumptive test of the substance returned a positive result for heroin, with about 500g removed from the suitcase.
The AFP charged the man, 47, with one count of importing a marketable quantity of a border controlled substance, contrary to section 307.2(1) of the Criminal Code (Cth). The maximum penalty for this offence is 25 years’ imprisonment.
He is expected to reappear in court on 23 September, 2025.
AFP Detective Acting Superintendent Simon Lalic said the AFP worked closely with the ABF and law enforcement partners to identify and disrupt anyone who attempted to import harmful, illicit substances into Australia.
“The AFP and its partners are committed to disrupting all levels of the drug trade and stopping anyone trying to profit at the expense of our community,” Det a/Supt Lalic said.
“Criminals are motivated by greed. They have no regard for the significant harmful impacts these illicit drugs have on our community.”
ABF Superintendent Jody Griswood said this detection highlighted the vigilance and experience of ABF officers on the front line, who were crucial in stopping harmful substances from reaching Australian streets.
“ABF officers at the border are highly trained, experienced and alert. They know exactly what to look for when selecting travellers and their baggage for further examination,” Supt Griswood said.
“This isn’t an isolated case and it’s not based on luck. These successes happen across our airports every week and this is just one example of the outstanding work ABF officers do every day to protect our borders and our communities.”
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.
