The Australian Border Force (ABF) and Australian Federal police (AFP) have a message for organised crime networks seeking to exploit a global crisis: This is not a time to think our borders are a soft target. They will continue enforcing the law and put people before the courts, for the safety of all Australians.
Over the past two weeks they have:
– Charged two men after investigating the alleged importation of cocaine. 6kg of methylamphetamine (with an estimated street value of $4.5 million) and 3kg of MDMA (estimated potential street value of $165,000) were seized after ABF officers inspected a package at the Sydney Gateway Facility, which had arrived from the United States. The importers were later found with almost $50,000 cash and six fraudulent IDs. [Report dated 27 March 2020]
– Charged a 55-year-old man from Tin Can Bay in Queensland, who imported six packages containing firearm parts from the USA by consigning them to Australia whilst he was overseas. The first package arrived on 24 December and was declared as containing a Christmas present of metal figurines but, when opened, was found to contain firearm components, including a handgun frame and receiver, as well as a magazine for a .22 calibre rifle. On 03 February the second consignment from the USA arrived containing a fully functioning .22 calibre handgun. On 21 February 2020, four further consignments were identified and seized – these contained components for a complete Taurus G2 handgun. The man also attempted to import pistol parts concealed inside a biscuit tin in his luggage on his return to Australia – these were seized by ABF officers at Brisbane Airport. [Report dated 27 March 2020]
– Summonsed a Queensland woman to appear in court next month on drug importation charges following the conclusion of a detailed investigation. The ABF will allege that she imported over 1.6 kilograms of drugs. The consignments were comprised of Gamma Hydroxybutyrate (GHB) and Gamma Butyrolactone (GBL), and were addressed to the woman. Drugs and weapons such as extendable batons and knuckle dusters were also seized. [Report dated 09 April 2020]
ABF Commander of Investigations, Graeme Grosse said, “Anyone thinking of engaging in this type of criminal behaviour should know that the ABF remains focused on combatting the scourge of illegal drugs, even while the nation responds to the challenges associated with COVID-19. Our officers are continuing to treat these issues as business as usual – we are still watching and we are investigating.
Colless Young will continue to issue regular updates on the effects on international trade and shipping as a result of COVID-19. As licensed Customs Brokers and International Freight Forwarders, we offer you correct, professional advice on all your import and export shipping needs. We handle cargo at all major ports and airports around Australia.
