A 20-year-old Queensland woman is due to face the NSW Bail Court Division 7 today (7 November 2025) after the Australian Federal Police (AFP) charged her with allegedly importing 39kg of methamphetamine concealed in two suitcases.
AFP Detective Acting Inspector Amy Knox said the 39kg haul could have been sold as approximately 390,000 “street deals”, potentially generating about $36 million for criminal networks.
“We know the devastating impact methamphetamine and other drugs have on individuals and our communities – that’s why we’re working closely with ABF and other partners to stop the flow of illicit drugs,” Det A/Insp Knox said.
“Every detection at the border keeps Australia safer and cuts off profits to drug traffickers. If someone asks you to carry a suitcase or package overseas and you suspect it could be illegal, refuse and contact police immediately.”
Australian Border Force (ABF) officers allegedly uncovered the drugs during a baggage examination shortly after the woman arrived in Sydney from Los Angeles yesterday (6 November). A detailed search reportedly revealed packages of a substance coated in chilli flakes inside her luggage, with initial testing indicating it was methamphetamine.
The ABF alerted the AFP, and officers subsequently questioned the woman before charging her with importing a commercial quantity of a border-controlled drug, namely methamphetamine, under section 307.1(1) of the Criminal Code (Cth). The offence carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
ABF Superintendent Elke West said travellers continued to underestimate the severe consequences of attempting to smuggle illicit substances into the country.
“Criminal syndicates are exploiting young travellers who may not understand the risks of importing border-controlled drugs into Australia, all for their own financial gain.”
Supt West added ABF intelligence-led screening was consistently intercepting significant quantities of illicit drugs. “Our officers will continue to work around the clock to ensure the border remains a hostile environment for those doing the wrong thing,” she said.
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