A man has been charged after allegedly hiding 100 granules of cocaine inside himself in an attempt to smuggle the drug into Australia.
Most important points:
- A CT scan reveals cocaine granules in a man’s stomach after a test found traces of the drug on his luggage
- He was charged with importing a negotiable amount of drugs at the border
- ABF Chief Inspector Phillip Anderson says his officers are some of the best at detecting internal concealments
The Portuguese arrived at Sydney airport from France via Hong Kong on January 1, reportedly carrying 1.6 kilograms of cocaine.
Australian Border Force (ABF) agents examined the luggage of the man, who tested positive for the drug.
A subsequent CT scan revealed pellets in his stomach — which he later excreted — containing about 16 grams each.
It comes after a 28-year-old Irish man was accused this week of hiding 120 grams of cocaine inside himself using six Kinder Surprise capsules.
Australian Federal Police (AFP) Detective Acting Superintendent Carly Smith said smugglers are not only risking their own lives, but potentially causing harm to the community.
“Anyone who smuggles drugs internally not only risks significant prison sentences, but also takes great risks with their health and well-being,” she said.
“The AFP is working closely with ABF and other partners to ensure our airports remain a hostile environment for criminal syndicates.”
Police claim that on the last attempt, the man swallowed the pellets before leaving France.
He has been charged with importing a negotiable amount of drugs at the border, namely cocaine, which carries a maximum prison sentence of 25 years.
ABF Chief Inspector Phillip Anderson said ABF officers were some of the best in the world at detecting internal concealments.
“No matter how you try to hide illegal substances in our country, ABF agents are well trained to detect anomalies and will stop you at the border,” he said.
“Do not risk your health by attempting to bring drugs into our country, as the ABF, along with our partner agencies, will ensure that you are caught and prosecuted.”
MONKEY