Two women accused of attempting to smuggle a massive quantity of methamphetamine into Australia are due back in court today after authorities allegedly discovered more than 38 kilograms of the drug hidden inside their luggage at Sydney Airport.
The pair, both aged 35, were intercepted by border officials after arriving on a flight from Singapore on December 20, 2025. One woman is an Australian resident and the other a New Zealand resident.
Border officers conducted a targeted baggage inspection after the women arrived in Sydney. During the search, authorities claim they uncovered dozens of vacuum sealed bags containing a crystalline substance concealed beneath a thin layer of towels inside two suitcases.
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Initial testing conducted by officers allegedly confirmed the substance as methamphetamine.
Federal investigators soon arrested the women following the discovery. Both were later charged with importing a commercial quantity of a border controlled drug under Australian federal law.
The charge carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment if proven in court.
The women are scheduled to reappear at the Downing Centre court in Sydney on Wednesday, March 4, 2026.
Officials say the case highlights the continuing efforts by border authorities to disrupt drug trafficking networks attempting to bring illegal substances into the country.
Australian Border Force Superintendent Elke West said officers use intelligence and behavioural analysis to identify potential threats entering the country.
“Our ABF officers are seizing significant quantities of illicit drugs at the border, removing profits from the hands of criminals and stopping their corrupt business model in its tracks,” Supt West said.
“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.
“The ABF will continue working closely with our partners using intelligence-led targeting to ensure our border is secure.”
Federal investigators also stressed that disrupting shipments like this can have a major impact on criminal organisations.
AFP Detective acting Inspector Trevor Robinson said authorities remain determined to prosecute those responsible for importing drugs into Australia.
“Stopping this consignment means stopping thousands of dollars in criminal profit and preventing immeasurable harm to Australian families,” Det a/Insp Robinson said.
“The AFP remains committed to targeting, identifying and prosecuting those responsible for the importation of illegal drugs.”
Authorities allege the seizure represents a significant disruption to drug trafficking operations attempting to move large quantities of methamphetamine through Australia’s international airports.
The case remains before the courts.
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