This is a joint media release issued by the Australian Federal Police and Australian Border Force.
A 73-year-old German national will appear in Downing Centre Local Court today (16 August), charged with importing a commercial quantity of a border controlled drug into Australia.
The man arrived at Sydney International Airport on 12 August 2022, originating from Auckland, New Zealand.
On arrival, he was subject to a baggage examination by Australian Border Force (ABF) officers. Further inspection of the man's baggage revealed about two kilograms of cocaine concealed within the lining of his carry-on suitcase.
The man was subsequently arrested by AFP officers and, after further investigations, was charged with one count of importing a commercial quantity of a border controlled drug, namely cocaine, contrary to section 307.1 of the Criminal Code 1995 (Cth).
Detective Sergeant Angy Polic said AFP officers work closely with the ABF to disrupt the supply of illicit drugs into Australia.
"AFP are committed to working together with the ABF to prevent any amount of drugs from entering the country," Polic said.
"When individuals arrive in Australia with drugs in their possession, it should come to no surprise they will be detected and face the consequences of the law, as a result."
ABF Superintendent Phillip Anderson, Aviation Traveller NSW said the detection was a great example of the capability and diligence of our ABF officers at Sydney International Airport.
"Criminals think that by importing small quantities of illicit substances into Australia they will evade detection by ABF officers, but that's not the case," Superintendent Anderson said
"We are always on the lookout for dangerous substances entering Australia, seizing even the smallest amount prevents the flow on effect of many devastating health consequences."
The man is scheduled to appear in Downing Centre Local Court today (16 August 2022).
The maximum penalty for this offence is 25 years' imprisonment.
