Joint U.S.-Australia Operation Blocks $1.29 Billion Meth Shipment
On 25 October 2024, two U.S. nationals were sentenced in Melbourne for attempting to import 1.7 tonnes of methamphetamine into Australia in 2019. The 57-year-old man received a 21-year sentence, while the 52-year-old woman was sentenced to 14 years. This meth shipment, estimated to be worth $1.29 billion, was the largest ever seized before reaching Australian soil, representing over 17 million potential street deals.
The operation began in 2018, led by the Victorian Joint Organised Crime Taskforce (JOCTF) and supported by U.S. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). Acting on intelligence, authorities intercepted two containers in California disguised as audio equipment, uncovering methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin. Following the seizure, further investigations in Australia led to multiple arrests and convictions, including three Australian men and a South Korean national.
This case, spanning five years, highlights the serious social harm posed by methamphetamine and underscores the effectiveness of international collaboration. Law enforcement officials stress that transnational crime impacts communities globally, reinforcing the need for joint efforts to disrupt the illicit drug trade.
Source abf.gov.au