The Australian Federal Police (AFP) is seeking public assistance after an estimated 80 kilograms of cocaine was discovered in a shipping container at Port Botany.
Australian Border Force (ABF) officers examined the US-origin container on Monday, 11 August, after x-ray scans revealed anomalies.
A forensic search uncovered two bags holding multiple packages wrapped in blue clingfilm and marked with a “464” label. Tests confirmed the substance as cocaine, with a potential street value of $26 million.
AFP Detective Acting Superintendent Stuart Millen said inquiries are underway to identify the syndicate behind the importation.
“Criminals who conspire to smuggle harmful drugs into Australia do not care about the pain and misery they inflict on our communities,” he said.
“The AFP and our partners are committed to targeting individuals who seek to profit from the illicit drug trade.”
ABF Superintendent Jared Leighton noted the concealment method may indicate a “rip-on/rip-off” tactic, where criminal insiders tamper with legitimate cargo in transit.
“The illicit drugs found within this container were not concealed, which could be indicative of this method,” he said.
“The ABF works closely with industry and international logistics partners to disrupt the infiltration of supply chains both on and offshore.”
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the cocaine shipment to contact police.
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