Media Release
UK national charged over alleged drug smuggling
A UK national faced the Melbourne Magistrates' Court today (22 November, 2024) after he was allegedly found to be concealing drugs at Melbourne Airport.
The AFP was called to Melbourne Airport yesterday morning (21 November, 2024) to speak to a man who was planning to travel to Bali, Indonesia.
Inquiries by police resulted in the belief the man, 46, was allegedly concealing illicit drugs internally and he was arrested and subsequently transported to hospital, where about 100g of a powdered substance – believed to be MDMA – was allegedly found concealed in his underpants.
The AFP charged the man with two offences:
- One count of attempting to export a marketable quantity of a border-controlled drug, namely MDMA, contrary to section 307.2 of the Criminal Code 1995 (Cth); and
- One count of possessing a controlled drug, namely MDMA, contrary to section 308.1 of the Criminal Code 1995 (Cth).
The maximum penalty for these offences is 25 years' imprisonment and 2 years' imprisonment, respectively.
AFP Detective Inspector Chris Salmon said authorities remained vigilant at airports across Australia, targeting anyone who sought to smuggle illicit substances into or out of the country.
"We know criminals will try a variety of methods to sneak contraband through our airports, which is why the AFP and our partners remain focused on ensuring a secure safety net around Australia's airports," Det-Insp Salmon said.
"Whether it is large scale importation, or small-scale smuggling, all drug crime can have a negative effect on the 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.
