Police allege that the seized consignment was linked to a phone number previously involved in other attempted imports, which had already been intercepted by Australian Border Force.
Cryptocurrency ATMs, which allow users to convert cash into digital currencies, have grown from just 23 machines in 2019 to more than 1,800 across Australia.
The parcels, allegedly addressed to various individuals, were found to contain cocaine, methamphetamine, and ketamine, with a combined weight of approximately 8kg.
In the last four years, Australians have reported more than $4.45 billion in losses from cyber-enabled fraud. In 2024 alone, Australians lost $945 million to investment scams.
Police allege the man played a critical role in monitoring the consignments while in transit and had planned to collect them upon arrival in Australia.
Members of the public who believe they or others may be at risk of modern slavery or human trafficking can contact the AFP on 131 AFP (237) or via the confidential online form.
“This museum will celebrate a vital thread through the history of our modern nation. I can’t think of a better site than Haymarket – a place synonymous with the Chinese-Australian story – or a more fitting time of year to open it.”
