Media Release
Sydney couple charged over alleged failed $5 million heroin import
This is a joint media release between the Australian Federal Police and Australian Border Force
Editor’s note: Images available via Hightail
A western Sydney couple appeared before Downing Centre Local Court today (10 January, 2025) charged with allegedly importing a total of 10kg of heroin in their suitcases into Australia.
Investigations into the man, 52, and woman, 53, began after they arrived at Sydney Airport on a flight from Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, on Thursday, 9 January, 2025.
Australian Border Force (ABF) officers selected the pair for baggage examination, which revealed abnormalities in the lining of two suitcases. A substance in the lining of the cases returned a positive initial reading for the presence of heroin.
AFP officers charged them each with one count of importing a commercial quantity of a border-controlled drug, namely heroin, contrary to section 307.1(1) of the Criminal Code (Cth).
The man and woman, who reside in Canley Heights, were remanded into custody and are next scheduled to appear before the Downing Centre Local Court on 12 March, 2025.
AFP Detective Acting Superintendent Dom Stephenson said the heroin had an estimated street value of $5 million and equated to about 50,000 street deals.
“Illicit drugs like heroin cause significant harm to users, their loved ones, and the wider Australian community,” Detective a/Supt Stephenson 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 said the detection of the significant heroin shipment underscored her officers’ unwavering commitment to protecting the Australian community from the harms caused by illicit substances.
“Heroin is an incredibly destructive drug. It is extremely addictive. It rips apart families and does untold damage to those who become trapped in its grip,” Supt West said.
“Keeping illicit substances such as heroin out of the hands of criminals who try to make a profit at the expense of vulnerable members of our community is a high priority for the ABF.
“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.”
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.
