A Canadian woman appeared before the Brisbane Magistrates Court yesterday, accused of importing 14.4 kilograms of methamphetamine into Australia via Fiji, hidden in her luggage.
Australian Border Force (ABF) officers reportedly discovered the illicit drugs on 28 July, 2024, after selecting the 24-year-old woman for a baggage check upon her arrival at Brisbane International Airport on a flight from Fiji.
The woman’s journey began in Vancouver, Canada.
The methamphetamine was allegedly concealed in plastic packages wrapped in towels soaked in vinegar and layered with coffee beans.
Tests on the packages indicated a presumptive positive result for methamphetamine.
The AFP charged the woman with one count of importing a commercial quantity of a border-controlled drug, a violation of section 307.1 of the Criminal Code 1995 (Cth).
This offense carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
The quantity of methamphetamine seized could have been sold as approximately 145,000 street deals, with an estimated value of AU$13.4 million.
Tikoduadua Responds
Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration Pio Tikoduadua stated that the incident underscored the challenges faced in combating the illicit drug trade and the necessity for stringent border control measures.
Mr. Tikoduadua acknowledged the recent incident involving a foreign national caught with a significant amount of methamphetamine upon arrival in Brisbane from Fiji. He noted that the individual had started her journey in Vancouver, Canada, with her luggage checked through from the point of origin to her destination.
“This case illustrates the methods traffickers use to conceal drugs, highlighting the importance of our vigilance and international cooperation,” Mr. Tikoduadua said.
“I commend the Australian Border Force for their vigilance and thorough inspection processes that led to this discovery,” he added. “Their efforts are vital in preventing illegal substances from crossing borders and protecting our communities from the dangers of drug trafficking.”
He affirmed that the Fijian Department of Immigration remains committed to enhancing border security and will continue to work closely with international partners, particularly Australian counterparts, to address these ongoing challenges.