Two women face life behind bars after allegedly trying to smuggle suitcases of methamphetamine at Sydney Airport
Two women face life imprisonment after allegedly attempting to smuggle more than 38 kilograms of illicit drugs inside two suitcases at Sydney Airport.
The Australian and New Zealand citizens, both aged 35, were stopped for a targeted baggage examination upon their arrival in Sydney from Singapore on February 28.
Australian Border Force (ABF) officers discovered dozens of vacuum-sealed bags of a crystal-like substance, hidden beneath a small layer of towels, which later tested positive for methamphetamine.
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ABF officers located dozens of vacuum sealed bags of a crystallised substance, concealed underneath a small layer of towels. Australian Border Force
Presumptive testing returned an initial positive result for methamphetamine. Australian Border Force
The women were arrested shortly after and charged with importing a commercial quantity of methamphetamine.
If found guilty, the crime carries a maximum punishment of life imprisonment.
The two women will reappear in court today.
ABF Superintendent Elke West said officers are seizing "significant quantities" of illegal drugs at Australian borders.
"Organised crime groups will run the gauntlet and attempt to smuggle in their illicit goods by any means possible, and that includes exploiting young, vulnerable travellers," West said.
"The ABF will continue working closely with our partners using intelligence-led targeting to ensure our border is secure."
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