Media Release
Sydney man charged with allegedly facilitating air mail drug import scheme
This is a joint release between Australian Federal Police and Australian Border Force
Editor’s note: images and vision available via Hightail
A Sydney man who allegedly facilitated multiple importations of illicit drugs into Australia via international mail is expected to appear before Downing Centre Local Court today (20 June, 2025).
The AFP launched an investigation in November, 2024, after Australian Border Force (ABF) officers identified about 30 international mail packages allegedly containing cocaine, methamphetamine, and ketamine with a combined weight of about 8kg.
It is alleged one individual was tracking and redirecting the packages which were addressed to various people.
AFP investigators executed a search warrant at a Kogarah Bay home yesterday (19 June, 2025) and seized a laptop, eight mobile phones, documents, cocaine testing kits and a small amount of a white substance, suspected to be cocaine.
A man, 52, was charged with one count of importing a marketable quantity of border controlled drugs, contrary to section 307.2 of the Criminal Code (Cth). The offence carries a maximum penalty of 25 years’ imprisonment.
AFP Detective Superintendent Morgen Blunden said the AFP and its partners were committed to stamping out attempts to import illicit substances into Australia.
"This arrest should serve as a serious warning to criminals attempting to import dangerous drugs into our country. Illicit drugs cause immense harm to users and their families and make our communities less safe," Det Supt Blunden said.
“These dangerous substances have devastating impacts that can be life-threatening even in the smallest amounts.
"No matter how elaborate or creative the attempts are, the AFP and our partners are working tirelessly to prevent the international mail delivery system from being used as part of the criminal supply chain."
ABF Border Intelligence Superintendent Marisa Dominello said this investigation was a great result for intelligence driven collaboration between agencies.
“The ABF are the first layer of protection for the Australian border – we use sophisticated targeting techniques and intelligence to identify suspicious consignments and stop them from entering the country,” Supt Dominello said.
“Every day, ABF officers at our international mail facilities work tirelessly to seize prohibited items before they have the chance to reach our community and cause serious harm.
“Our partner agencies are all united in our mission to secure our border and protect the Australian community.”
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.
