The Australian Federal Police (AFP) has appealed for public assistance to identify the criminal syndicate behind a major drug importation after 54 kilograms of cocaine were discovered in a shipping container of flour at Port Botany.
AFP Detective Superintendent Peter Fogarty said the agency was determined to disrupt organised crime networks targeting Australia.
“We are pleased we were able to prevent these drugs from reaching our communities,” he said.
“We will be relentless in pursuing the syndicate responsible. We are watching, we are ready, and we will bring you to justice.”
Australian Border Force (ABF) officers intercepted the consignment in late July 2025, after x-rays during a routine inspection revealed anomalies. The container had been shipped from South America and transshipped via China.
A forensic examination uncovered two duffel bags concealed within the flour, each containing 27 one-kilogram packages of cocaine. The drugs, with an estimated potential street value of $17.5 million, were seized.
ABF Commander Kari Ellis praised the work of frontline officers, saying they were committed to keeping Australia safe from criminal entities attempting to exploit the border.
“The criminals who attempt to harm our community in return for large profits will find themselves in court,” Commander Ellis said.
“We continue to work closely with both domestic and international partners to hold them accountable.”
Authorities have also encouraged the public to report any suspicious activity to Border Watch to help safeguard Australia’s borders and communities.
The AFP is urging anyone with information about the consignment to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report online.
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