A Sydney man has been arrested in connection with a methamphetamine shipment seized by Hong Kong authorities. The 240kg shipment was discovered hidden in rolls of fabric during a joint investigation between Hong Kong Customs and Excise (HKCE), the Australian Federal Police (AFP), and the Australian Border Force (ABF). Three men in Hong Kong were also arrested for their suspected involvement.
The HKCE found that the consignment was destined for Sydney and contacted the AFP and ABF. As part of the investigation, the HKCE substituted the methamphetamine with an inert substance and allowed the shipment to proceed to Australia. The container arrived in Australia on August 12th and was processed by the ABF’s Container Examination Facility before being sent to an address in the Sydney suburb of Silverwater on August 23rd.
Upon observing four men unpacking the container, AFP officers entered the premises and executed a search warrant. A 28-year-old Sydney man was arrested for his alleged role in coordinating the importation of the consignment. The other three men were released pending further investigations.
Detective Acting Superintendent Jeremy Staunton of the AFP stated that this investigation showcased the benefits of international partnerships in stopping the importation of harmful drugs. He emphasized the potential harm the methamphetamine could have caused and highlighted the AFP’s ability to arrest individuals involved at multiple stages of the supply chain.
Superintendent Elke West of the ABF expressed that while detections at the border have increased, taking the fight against organized crime offshore with international partners remains crucial. The ABF will continue to work closely with law enforcement agencies to prevent illicit drugs from entering Australia.
During the search warrant, AFP investigators seized various items, including a mobile phone, a small quantity of marijuana and cocaine, recently purchased suitcases, and a new flatbed scale.
The arrested Sydney man is expected to face charges including importing a commercial quantity of methamphetamine and attempting to possess a commercially imported quantity of the drug. If convicted, the maximum penalty for both offenses is life imprisonment.
The AFP, through its International Command, maintains officers in 32 countries worldwide. These officers collaborate with local law enforcement agencies to share intelligence and protect Australians from various threats.
Investigations into the criminal syndicate responsible for the methamphetamine shipment are ongoing both domestically and internationally. The joint efforts of law enforcement agencies aim to disrupt the operations of organized crime groups and ensure the safety of the community.
