Two Indian nationals have been fined a combined $29,800 and deported from Australia after Australian Border Force (ABF) officers uncovered undeclared whisky concealed inside cartons falsely labelled as beer in a sea cargo container in Sydney.

The ABF investigation began after officers detected irregularities in imported alcohol shipments during routine cargo screening. Authorities discovered whisky products hidden within boxes declared as beer, triggering a detailed inquiry into suspected customs violations.

Under Australian law, imported goods must be accurately declared to ensure correct duties, taxes and regulatory compliance. Misdeclaring alcohol is treated as a serious offence, as it can be used to avoid significant excise duties and import taxes.

Investigation and seizure under Customs Act

On 8 July 2025, ABF investigators executed search warrants under the Customs Act 1901 to seize the cargo and collect evidence linked to the undeclared alcohol. Authorities allege the two men attempted to interfere with the shipment by contacting the manager of an underbond facility — a licensed storage location for imported goods awaiting customs clearance — seeking to remove the concealed whisky and replace it with beer to conceal the violation.

Further warrants were carried out on 20 August 2025 as investigators expanded their inquiry and gathered additional evidence.

Following the investigation, ABF officers issued infringement notices totalling $29,800 for making false declarations in connection with imported goods.

Visas cancelled, individuals depart Australia

The case was referred to the Department of Home Affairs, which cancelled one student visa and one tourist visa on 7 October 2025, citing breaches of visa conditions and Australian customs laws.

After their visas were cancelled, both individuals departed Australia.

Visa cancellation powers allow authorities to remove non-citizens who breach Australian laws or pose risks to the integrity of the immigration and customs system.

ABF warns of serious consequences

ABF Superintendent Mel Stewart said the penalties highlight the consequences of attempting to misdeclare goods entering Australia.

“There are significant penalties for making a misdeclaration when importing goods,” Superintendent Stewart said.

She emphasised that smuggling and misdeclaration undermine legitimate businesses and Australia’s regulated import system.

“Such actions undermine legitimate Australian businesses and the integrity of systems designed to support honest taxpayers,” she said.

Superintendent Stewart added that ABF officers use intelligence-led targeting and advanced screening methods to detect illicit imports and ensure offenders are held accountable.

Broader enforcement and border protection efforts

The incident forms part of ABF’s broader efforts to combat illegal importation, customs fraud and tax evasion. Australia imposes strict controls on alcohol imports due to public health, taxation and regulatory requirements.

Excise duties and import taxes on alcohol are among the highest in Australia, making misdeclaration a common method used by offenders seeking to avoid payment.

ABF officers routinely inspect sea cargo containers, using data analysis, intelligence sharing and physical inspections to identify suspicious shipments.

Authorities say enforcement actions such as fines, visa cancellations, and deportations serve as deterrents and reinforce the integrity of Australia’s border and customs system.

The ABF has warned importers, businesses and individuals that strict penalties apply to anyone attempting to circumvent customs laws, and investigations into similar breaches remain ongoing.

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