Sydney Airport: 10kg of cocaine allegedly found in Canadian national's suitcase after random inspection
A Canadian national has faced court after allegedly attempting to smuggle more than 11 kilograms of cocaine into a major Australian airport, an offence that could see him locked up for life.
Australian Border Force officers intercepted the man, 38, on Thursday at Sydney Airport after selecting him for a baggage examination.
During the search, officers discovered 10 vacuum-sealed packages containing a white substance, which provided positive initial test results for cocaine.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.The packages had an estimated weight of 11.6kg.
The Australian Federal Police charged the man with importing a commercial quantity of a border-controlled drug under the Criminal Code Act 1995, an offence carrying a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
He appeared before Sutherland Local Court on Friday, December 13, and was remanded in custody to appear at Downing Centre Local Court on February 12, 2025.
AFP Detective Acting Superintendent Dom Stephenson described the smuggling attempt as “brazen”.
“This was a brazen attempt to smuggle a substantial quantity of cocaine into Australia, which could have resulted in untold damage had it reached our community,” he said.
“For those who arrive in our country with drugs in their possession, they should expect to be detected and face the full consequences of the law.”
