29 January 2024, 6:06pm
Media Release
AFP seizes 100kg of methamphetamine concealed in window frames
This is a joint release between the Australian Federal Police and Australian Border Force.
Editor’s note: Images of the seizure are available via Hightail.
The AFP is investigating after about 100kg of methamphetamine was imported into Australia concealed within window frames.
Australian Border Force (ABF) officers detected the illicit drugs on 26 January, 2024, during a routine examination of a shipping container, which had arrived in Sydney from Mexico.
Officers identified abnormalities when they x-rayed the contents of the consignment and further examination of the frames revealed a white powder concealed below the surface.
Tests of the powder returned a positive result to methamphetamine and ABF alerted the AFP.
Further forensic testing will be done to determine the purity of the methamphetamine.
No charges have been laid at this stage and the investigation continues.
AFP Detective Superintendent Kristie Cressy said the AFP worked closely with the ABF and other partner agencies to ensure Australia remained a hostile environment for criminal syndicates.
“Criminals may work hard to plan and execute elaborate schemes, but the AFP and its partner agencies work harder to detect and seize these concealments,” Det-Supt Cressy said.
“This amount of methamphetamine could have been distributed in the Australian community as about 1,000,000 street deals worth an estimated $90 million.
“Methamphetamine, even in small amounts, causes immense harm to users, their loved ones, and the community around them, through the impact on the health care system and associated crime.
“We are urging anyone who has any knowledge or information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via crimestoppers.com.au.”
ABF Superintendent Jared Leighton said the detection capabilities of the Australian Border Force ensured officers were able to act swiftly to stop these narcotics from entering the country.
“Criminal syndicates are constantly attempting new concealment methods, however our Border Force officers, along with our federal counterparts, have slammed the window shut on this import,” Supt Leighton said.
“Ice’ is an extremely destructive illicit substance, and we are working 24/7 to ensure we stop this insidious drug from harming Australian families.”
*Source: ACIC Illicit Drug Calculator.
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.
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