Brisbane man charged with importing almost 12kg of Methamphetamine
A 31-year-old Windsor man appeared before the Brisbane Magistrates Court this week (Thursday 25 March 2021) charged in connection to the importation of around 12 kilograms of methamphetamine.
On 17 March 2021, Australian Border Force (ABF) officers conducted an examination of a sea cargo consignment from Canada to the Port of Brisbane.
It is alleged 11.9 kilograms of methamphetamine was detected inside the shipment concealed within a number of automotive drive shafts.
This amount of methamphetamine has an estimated street value of $9 million dollars.
The ABF subsequently referred the matter to the Australian Federal Police (AFP) for investigation.
On 24 March 2021, AFP officers executed search warrants at two premises and seized evidential items.
A 31-year-old man was arrested at his residence in Windsor.
The man was charged with:
- 1 count of attempting to possess a commercial quantity of a border controlled drug, contrary to section 307.5 by virtue of section 11.1 of the Criminal Code 1995 (Cth); and
- 1 count of importing a commercial quantity of a border controlled drug, contrary to section 307.1 of the Criminal Code 1995 (Cth).
The maximum penalty for these offences is life imprisonment.
The man has been remanded in custody to appear in court at a later date.
Detective Acting Superintendent Tim Puchala said, “This arrest shows that the AFP continues to work tirelessly with its Commonwealth partners to identify, target and prosecute those who seek to import illegal drugs into Australia.”
“Through cooperation and the hard work of our investigators, we are committed to protecting the community from the extreme harm caused from the circulation of such serious and life-destroying drugs,” Acting Superintendent Puchala said.
ABF Assistant Commissioner North and Immigration Detention, Tim Fitzgerald, commended the officers at the Brisbane Container Examination Facility (CEF) for their unwavering commitment to preventing illicit drugs across the border.
“They are well versed in the many creative ways criminals attempt to conceal illegal and prohibited goods in incoming cargo,” Assistant Commissioner Fitzgerald said.
“We will continue to work collaboratively with our Federal and State law enforcement partners to 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.
Media enquiries
AFP Media: (02) 5126 9297
ABF Media: (02) 6264 2211