An Iranian national has faced Downing Centre Local Court charged over his alleged role in a failed plot to import 390kg of methamphetamine into Australia, with a potential street value of more than $360 million.
The 61-year-old man, who arrived in Australia from Hamburg in June, was arrested on 17 August after Australian Federal Police (AFP) executed a search warrant at a home in Quakers Hill and seized items including power tools and cutting equipment. He was remanded in custody and will reappear in court on 15 October.
Police allege the man planned and coordinated the importation of methamphetamine concealed inside crane parts shipped from Iran to Sydney.
The drugs were discovered after Australian Border Force (ABF) officers intercepted three containers and uncovered hidden plastic pipes and packages inside the crane structures. Forensic testing confirmed the 390kg of crystalline substance was methamphetamine.
The AFP launched Operation Alondra in June after ABF identified the suspicious consignment. Detective Superintendent Morgan Blunden said the seizure prevented about 3.9 million street-level deals from reaching the community.
“This arrest should serve as a warning to anyone involved in this failed import attempt – we are not ruling out further arrests and remain committed to bringing those responsible to justice.”
The man has been charged with attempting to possess and participating in the business of importing a commercial quantity of border-controlled drugs, offences that each carry a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
ABF Superintendent Jared Leighton said the case highlighted the skills of officers in detecting and dismantling complex concealments.
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