The AFP is seeking public assistance after an estimated 373kg haul of illicit drugs - including cocaine, methamphetamine and MDMA - was found hidden inside a heavy-duty diesel generator in Sydney.
Australian Border Force (ABF) officers examined the consignment in early 2026 after x-ray imaging identified internal anomalies during a routine inspection. ABF officers then contacted the AFP.
The generator was shipped from Mexico, via Malaysia, before it arrived at Port Botany.
A forensic examination of the generator - during which a team of engineers took almost three days to dismantle the machinery - revealed a concealment of a large quantity of illicit drugs, including:
- 106 one-kilogram blocks of cocaine;
- Another 14kg of cocaine in vacuum-sealed packs;
- 250kg of methamphetamine in white plastic bags;
- Three kilograms of MDMA inside clear vacuum-seal bags; and
- 800g of '2CB' (2,5- Dimethoxy-4-bromophenethylamine) in a vacuum-sealed bag.
The total estimated weight of the substances is 373.8kg.
The AFP seized the drugs and inquiries are underway to identify the criminal syndicate responsible for the importation.
AFP Detective Acting Superintendent Stuart Kimbell said the AFP was seeking assistance from people who may have been approached to help store the generators, or people with mechanical or technical skills who may have been asked about repairing generators or the sale of spare parts.
"Criminal networks which attempt to bring harmful drugs into our country have no regard for the devastation these substances cause to individuals, families and communities," Det a/Supt Kimbell said.
"This mixed bag of illicit drugs was likely destined for several different criminal groups, to be sold into a range of communities. Despite the elaborate attempt to conceal such a large quantity of drugs, the coordinated efforts of law enforcement ensured these substances never reached Australian streets.
"Through our international network and strong partnerships, the AFP is committed to identifying and dismantling the syndicates responsible for large-scale importations."
Det a/Supt Kimbell urged anyone with information about the importation to contact police.
ABF Superintendent Jared Leighton said this complex and protracted concealment and deconstruction required a high level of technicality from ABF and AFP officers.
"ABF officers are highly skilled at identifying anomalies across all forms of incoming cargo, no matter how elaborate the concealment," Supt Leighton said.
"We know criminal syndicates invest significant time and resources into attempts to evade detection, and this seizure shows those efforts are no match against coordinated enforcement capabilities.
"The ABF and its partners remain committed to staying ahead of emerging criminal methodologies and ensuring Australia's borders and communities are protected."
