The AFP is seeking public assistance after 110kg of cocaine, which arrived in a shipping container transporting frozen berries from Santiago, Chile, was seized in Sydney.
Investigations began on 24 June, 2026, after Australian Border Force (ABF) officers in Port Botany identified a significant number of suspicious packages hidden within a refrigerated container destined for northwest Sydney.
The matter was reported to the AFP with investigators retrieving 110 bricks of a compressed white powder, each weighing 1kg.
Preliminary testing of the powder returned positive for cocaine, which would have an estimated street value of about $36 million.
Inquiries are ongoing to identify the criminal syndicate responsible for the importation.
AFP Detective Acting Superintendent Aaron Burgess said law enforcement was acutely aware of the trend of criminal syndicates using refrigerated containers to import harmful drugs into Australia.
"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 Burgess said.
"The community are our eyes and ears, and any information, however big or small, may help us identify those responsible for this failed importation."
ABF Acting Superintendent Noleen Shankar said ABF officers remain dedicated to preventing harmful substances from reaching Australian communities.
"Cocaine seizures at our border have increased by 23% compared to the same time last year. This highlights the expertise of ABF officers, leveraging intelligence-led targeting and their advanced operational capabilities to protect Australia's border," a/Supt Shankar said.
"No matter the methods criminals use to try and hide illicit goods, the ABF and our law enforcement partners will continue to target the syndicates behind these activities and dismantle their operations."
Anyone with information which may assist investigators with their inquiries is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.
