Media Release
Sydney man charged over failed ephedrine import plot from Laos
Editor’s note: Arrest vision available via Hightail.
An Eastwood man appeared before Downing Centre Local Court on Tuesday (10 February, 2026) charged with allegedly attempting to import 3kg of ephedrine into Australia from Laos.
Investigations began in November, 2025, after the Vietnamese Ministry of Public Security (MPS) in Ho Chi Minh City seized a consignment of ephedrine destined for Australia.
Further AFP inquiries into the consignment allegedly led police to the Eastwood man, 20.
It will be alleged the man was tracking a separate 3kg ephedrine consignment from Laos which was intercepted by Australian Border Force (ABF) officers in late December 2025.
A search warrant was executed at the man’s home on 9 February, 2026. Items seized included a mobile phone, a pocket scale machine, and a small clip-seal bag containing a grey-coloured substance.
The man was charged with one count of attempting to import a commercial quantity of a border-controlled precursor, contrary to subsections 307.11 and 11.1 of the Criminal Code (Cth).
The maximum penalty for this offence is 25 years’ imprisonment.
He was refused bail at the court appearance on Tuesday and is scheduled to appear before the same court on 8 April, 2026.
AFP Detective Superintendent Morgen Blunden said law enforcement around the globe were ready to thwart drug smuggling attempts.
“Ephedrine can be used as a precursor to manufacture illicit drugs such as methamphetamine, which when sold in Australia, negatively impacts our economy, health system and community,” Det Supt Blunden said.
“The AFP works hand-in-hand with our international partners to identify threats early, track illicit supply chains, and intervene before harmful substances reach Australian streets.
“This investigation remains ongoing and further arrests have not been ruled out.”
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.
