Authorities have seized almost $9 million worth of cocaine hidden inside a refrigerated shipping container that arrived at Port Botany in New South Wales.
Australian Border Force (ABF) officers intercepted the consignment yesterday (2 December 2025) after an x-ray scan revealed anomalies at the rear of the container. A closer inspection uncovered 22 individually wrapped plastic blocks weighing about 27kg. Presumptive tests confirmed the substance was cocaine, and officers also found packages fitted with tracking devices.
The haul is estimated to be enough for roughly 135,000 street-level deals.
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) took possession of the drugs and have launched further investigations. Since October 2025, ABF officers have detected around 145kg of cocaine concealed in refrigerated shipping containers.
AFP Detective Acting Superintendent Aaron Burgess said cooperation between Australian and international law enforcement remained crucial in stopping criminal networks from flooding the country with illicit substances.
“Cocaine is a highly addictive substance and causes significant harm in the community,” he said.
“Transnational criminal syndicates will go to any extreme in their attempts to import harmful illicit substances into our country. We are here to remind them that we have the skills and ability to disrupt these ventures.”
ABF Acting Superintendent Matt Hughes said officers conduct around-the-clock, intelligence-led assessments of sea cargo before it reaches Australian ports.
“The Australian border is our most critical national asset, and our officers will continue to ensure it remains a hostile environment for those doing the wrong thing.”
He added that strong information sharing across agencies helps authorities build a clearer picture of suspicious cargo and its intended destination.
“This detection is a fantastic example of how agency collaboration and monitoring can result in significant operational outcomes and real-life harm minimisation,” a/Supt Hughes said.
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