Australian Authorities Seize Over $68 Million in Illicit Drugs at Sydney and Brisbane Airports, Three Charged
Australian law enforcement agencies have reported two separate incidents involving alleged drug smuggling attempts at Sydney and Brisbane International Airports, resulting in charges against a woman and two men.
These operations led to the seizure of approximately 39 kilograms of methamphetamine and 65 kilograms of heroin, with an estimated combined street value exceeding $68 million.
Sydney Airport Methamphetamine Seizure
On January 24, a 32-year-old woman from Western Sydney was intercepted by Australian Border Force (ABF) officers at Sydney Airport. She had arrived on a flight from South Africa. An X-ray examination of her luggage revealed anomalies, prompting a subsequent search.
During the search, officers located approximately 20 kilograms of a white powder in vacuum-sealed bags within one suitcase, with an additional 19 kilograms of an identical substance found in a second suitcase. Presumptive testing identified the powder as methamphetamine, totaling an estimated 39 kilograms.
Authorities have estimated the street value of the seized methamphetamine at $36.7 million, representing approximately 390,000 street-level deals.
The woman was arrested by the Australian Federal Police (AFP) and charged with one count each of importing and possessing a commercial quantity of a border-controlled drug. These charges carry a potential maximum penalty of life imprisonment. She was scheduled to appear in court following her arrest.
Brisbane Airport Heroin Seizure
In a distinct incident, two men, David Amituanai, 27, and Saige Oto, 25, both from Sydney, were arrested at Brisbane International Airport in connection with an alleged attempt to smuggle heroin into Australia. ABF officers selected the men for a baggage check after their arrival on a flight from China.
An X-ray of their luggage reportedly showed anomalies. A subsequent search by ABF officers uncovered multiple blue satchels containing a white powder substance, allegedly concealed within the linings of various items, including wallets, pencil cases, and laptop bags.
Police allege that an estimated 65 kilograms of this substance tested positive for heroin. The estimated street value of the seized heroin is approximately $32 million, with the potential for an estimated 325,000 street-level deals.
The two men were arrested at the airport and charged with importing a commercial quantity of a border-controlled drug, an offense that also carries a potential penalty of life imprisonment.
During their appearance in Brisbane Magistrates Court, a duty lawyer applied for bail, which the commonwealth prosecutor did not oppose. The prosecutor cited the men's lack of prior criminal history, the confiscation of their passports, and their stated intention to reside with family interstate as factors indicating a reduced risk of flight.
Bail was granted under conditions, which included:
- Residing at approved addresses in New South Wales.
- Reporting to police twice weekly.
- Having no contact with each other.
Their cases are scheduled to return to court in April.
Broader Context
Law enforcement agencies have noted an increase in attempts to smuggle illicit drugs into Australia. Australian Federal Police Detective Superintendent Morgan Blunden previously commented that criminal supply chains have experienced disruptions, and authorities have issued warnings to syndicates involved in the importation of illicit drugs.