Authorities Foil Alleged Drug Smuggling at Australian Airport
A 46-year-old UK national appeared in Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on November 22, 2024, after being accused of attempting to smuggle drugs through Melbourne Airport. The Australian Federal Police (AFP) detained the man on November 21 as he prepared to travel to Bali, Indonesia.
Upon investigation, authorities suspected the man was concealing drugs internally. He was taken to a hospital where approximately 100 grams of powdered MDMA was allegedly discovered hidden in his underpants.
The man faces two charges: attempting to export a marketable quantity of MDMA, which carries a maximum penalty of 25 years in prison, and possession of a controlled drug, with a maximum penalty of 2 years in prison.
AFP Detective Inspector Chris Salmon emphasized the importance of airport security and the continuous efforts to prevent smuggling. “All drug crime, whether large or small scale, negatively impacts the community,” Salmon stated.
This incident highlights the vigilance of Australian authorities in combating drug-related offenses and ensuring safety at the nation’s airports.
afp