The Australian Federal Police (AFP) has charged two women in separate drug smuggling cases after officers allegedly uncovered methamphetamine and cocaine hidden in their luggage at Melbourne Airport.
A 22-year-old Lilydale woman appeared before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Thursday (30 January 2025) after authorities allegedly found 18kg of methamphetamine and 2kg of cocaine in her baggage upon arrival from Los Angeles.
This follows the arrest of a 20-year-old Portuguese national, who was charged on 20 January 2025 after officers allegedly discovered 16kg of methamphetamine-soaked clothing in her luggage.
Australian Border Force (ABF) officers selected the Lilydale woman for a baggage check after she landed in Melbourne on 29 January 2025. A search allegedly revealed vacuum-sealed bags containing methamphetamine and cocaine.
AFP investigators charged her with multiple offences, including importing and possessing a commercial quantity of a border-controlled drug. The most serious charges carry a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
She was refused bail and is set to reappear in Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 23 April 2025.
The Portuguese woman arrived from the United States on 18 January 2025, when ABF officers allegedly found clothing items impregnated with methamphetamine.
She was charged with importing and possessing a marketable quantity of a border-controlled drug, offences carrying a maximum penalty of 25 years in prison.
She was also denied bail and is scheduled to return to court on 5 May 2025.
AFP Commander Raegan Stewart said authorities remain committed to preventing transnational drug syndicates from using Australian airports as part of the criminal supply chain.
“Despite all the risks involved, we are still arresting people who attempt to bring illicit drugs into our country through our airports,” Commander Stewart said.
ABF Acting Commander Fiona Strong reinforced the message, stating officers are well-equipped to detect drug smuggling attempts.
“Illicit substances such as methamphetamine and cocaine have lethal consequences, destroying lives and wreaking havoc in the community,” she said.
Authorities have warned that drug mules will continue to be targeted and intercepted, with offenders facing serious consequences under Australian law.
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