WA man arrested at airport over 3kg of meth in suitcase
This is a joint release between the AFP and Australian Border Force
Editor’s note: Images are available via Hightail
The AFP has charged a Hamilton Hill man with allegedly attempting to import 3kg of methamphetamine in his luggage through Melbourne International Airport.
The man, 38, faced Melbourne Magistrates Court yesterday (26 July, 2023) and has been remanded.
Australian Border Force (ABF) officers examined the man’s luggage on Tuesday 25, July, after he arrived on a flight from Singapore and allegedly found 3kg of a crystalline substance concealed within the lining of the suitcase.
A presumptive test on the substance tested positive for methamphetamine.
The AFP arrested the man and charged him with:
- Importing a commercial quantity of a border controlled drug, namely methamphetamine, contrary to section 307.1 of the Criminal Code Act 1995 (Cth); and
- Possessing of a controlled drug namely methamphetamine, contrary to Section 308.1, of the Criminal Code Act 1995 (Cth).
Both charges carry a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
Detective Acting Superintendent Amanda Glover said the AFP works closely with its law enforcement partners to stop illicit drugs from reaching our communities.
“We know the devastating impact methamphetamine and other drugs have on individuals and our communities – that’s why we’re committed to stopping the flow at our borders,” Supt Glover said.
“The AFP will continue to prioritise national security at designated airports and remains focused on preventing, disrupting and responding to security and criminal activity.”
ABF Superintendent Kelly-anne Parish said ABF officers are highly trained, always on alert and have a significant technological capability when it comes to detecting illicit drugs coming into Australia.
“ABF officers working at the border, 24 hours a day, are dedicated to protecting the Australian community form harmful drugs,” Supt Parish said.
“To those engaged in this type of criminal activity, the message is simple, we will stop you.”
“The ABF is committed to protecting the community from harmful drugs, and we work closely with our law enforcement partners to prevent these substances getting into 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 at counsellingonline.org.au.
- For information about drug and alcohol addiction treatment or support, go to turningpoint.org.au.
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