Woman charged over allegedly importing 39kg of chilli-covered drugs to Sydney Airport

A Queensland woman is set to face court today after a detailed search of her suitcases at Sydney Airport allegedly revealed 39kg of meth covered in chilli flakes.

Australian Border Force (ABF) officers allegedly found the illicit drugs after selecting the 20-year-old for a baggage examination following her arrival from Los Angeles yesterday.

Initial tests indicated that the substances in the two suitcases were methamphetamine.

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The Australian Federal Police were notified and questioned the woman before she was charged with one count of importing a commercial quantity of a border-controlled drug.

The charge carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.

AFP Detective Acting Inspector Amy Knox said the quantity could have been sold as 390,000 individual street deals, making over $36 million for 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," Knox said.

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"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."

"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," ABF Superintendent Elke West said.

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"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."

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