A Queensland woman is expected to appear before the NSW Bail Court Division 7 today (7 November, 2025) charged by the AFP for allegedly importing 39kg of methamphetamine hidden in two suitcases.
Australian Border Force (ABF) officers allegedly found the illicit drugs after selecting the woman, 20, for a baggage examination following her arrival from Los Angeles, United States, yesterday (6 November, 2025).
A detailed search of the bags allegedly located 39kg of a substance covered in chilli flakes inside the woman's suitcases, with initial tests indicating the substance was methamphetamine.
ABF alerted the AFP and AFP officers questioned the woman before charging her with one count of importing a commercial quantity of a border-controlled drug, namely methamphetamine, contrary to section 307.1(1) of the Criminal Code (Cth).
The charge carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
AFP Detective Acting Inspector Amy Knox said 39kg of methamphetamine could have been sold as 390,000 'street deals' and put about $36 million into the pockets of criminals.
"We know the devastating impact methamphetamine and other drugs have on individuals and our communities - that's why we're working closely with ABF and other partners to stop the flow of illicit drugs," Det a/Insp Knox said.
"Every detection of drugs at the border keeps Australia safer and ensures that drug traffickers cannot reap profits by exploiting the Australian community.
"If someone asks you to carry a suitcase or package overseas and you suspect it could be illegal, refuse the request and contact police immediately. Don't take risks, nothing is worth jeopardising your safety or freedom."
ABF Superintendent Elke West said travellers were still not comprehending the life-altering consequences when allegedly making brazen attempts to smuggle illicit substances into our country.
"Criminal syndicates are exploiting young travellers who may not understand the risks of importing border-controlled drugs into Australia, all for their own financial gain," Supt West said.
"We too often see people from all walks of life enticed into situations by organised crime groups, for which the individual doing the dirty work faces very real consequences.
"The ABF's intelligence-led targeting continues to result in significant quantities of illicit drugs being stopped at the border - our officers will continue to work around the clock to ensure the border remains a hostile environment for those doing the wrong thing."
