Media Release
Sydney man charged over drug importations through postal system
This is a joint media release between the Australian Federal Police and Australian Border Force
Editor’s note: Arrest vision available via Hightail
A West Ryde man, 26, appeared in a NSW Local Court in today (10 December, 2025) for alleged attempts to import about 16kg of illicit drugs via international air cargo packages.
He is the second man charged as part of an AFP investigation that began in 2022 after Australian Border Force (ABF) officers detected liquid methamphetamine and cocaine concealed in air cargo packages destined for southwest Sydney between July and September that year.
The illicit drugs were concealed in consignments labelled as mashed potato packets, ink cartridges and coffee machine parts.
Investigators executed search warrants at homes in the western Sydney suburbs of Denham Court, Prestons, and Warwick Farm in October, 2022, and seized 21 mobile phones, multiple sim cards, drug paraphernalia, $18,000 in cash and small amounts of illicit drugs.
A forensic review of a seized mobile phone identified messages on an encrypted messaging application discussing delivery of consignments to locations in Warwick Farm and Denham Court and the expected profits.
A man, 27, was charged in October, 2022, with:
- One count of attempting to possess a commercial quantity of border controlled drugs, contrary to section 307.5 of the Criminal Code (Cth); and
- One count of trafficking a commercial quantity of controlled drugs, contrary to subsection 302.4(1) of the Criminal Code (Cth).
This man’s matter remains before the court.
Following further inquiries, AFP investigators arrested a man, 26, at a West Ryde home about 11.20am yesterday (9 December, 2025).
He was subsequently charged with four counts of attempting to import a commercial quantity of a border-controlled drug, contrary to sections 307.1(1) and 11.1(1) of the Criminal Code (Cth). The offence has a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
The AFP will allege the man was a user of an encrypted communications platform and facilitated the importation of 14.6kg of pure methamphetamine and 1.7kg of cocaine.
He appeared before the NSW Local Court today (10 December, 2025) where he was granted bail. He is expected to return to Downing Centre Local Court on 3 February, 2025.
AFP Detective Superintendent Peter Fogarty said the arrest demonstrated the AFP’s commitment and tenacity to protecting the Australian community from illicit drugs.
"Stopping those allegedly responsible for bringing harmful drugs from reaching our community is not just a victory for law enforcement — it's a win for every Australian,” he said.
“Let this investigation serve as yet another serious warning to those attempting to import harmful, illicit substances into Australia — we will identify you and bring you and your criminal associates to justice.
“I would like to thank ABF and NSW Police Force for the assistance provided to the investigation.”
ABF Superintendent Asha Patwardhan said the ABF’s commitment to detecting and disrupting the deceitful business model of organised crime had never wavered.
“Detection capabilities only continue to improve and develop, with the ABF’s targeting and intelligence-driven approach continuing to seize and stop illicit drugs from flooding onto our streets,” Supt Patwardhan said.
“This ongoing investigation is a fantastic example of collaboration between agencies, as it demonstrates that regardless of time lapsed, our joint intelligence will flush out those who exploit the community for their own financial benefit.
“The Australian Border Force will continue to maintain the integrity of the Australian border and protect the Australian community from harm.”
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.
