2LT Local News

Editor’s Note: Vision of the seized importation are available via hightail

A man from Sydney’s western suburbs has been sentenced to five years and six months’ imprisonment for his role in importing 15.3kg of methamphetamine.

The 33-year-old man became the suspect of a 2021 AFP investigation after an air cargo consignment from the United States contained methamphetamine following the detection by U.S authorities.

U.S authorities examined the consignment described as blueprints prior to it arriving in Australia, and discovered 15.3kg of the drug, with an estimated street value of over $13 million.

U.S authorities removed the meth from the shipment, and AFP investigators undertook a controlled delivery to its intended address in the western Sydney suburb of Jordan Springs.

Investigators found evidence that suggested the recipient was a member of an Australian-based criminal syndicate as he was arrested at his home after taking delivery of the consignment. It was alleged he was paid to have his personal information recorded on the consignment in an attempt to avoid other, more-senior syndicate members coming to the attention of police.

On 8 August 2022, the Jordan Springs man pleaded guilty to one count of attempting to possess a commercial quantity of a border-controlled drug, namely methamphetamine, contrary to subsection 11.1(1) and 307.5(1) of the Criminal Code (Cth).

He was sentenced at the Sydney Downing Centre District Court on 31 July 2023 to five years and six months’ imprisonment, with a non-parole period of three years.

AFP Command Kate Ferry said the AFP remains steadfast in protecting the Australian community from the illicit drug trade and the harms associated with organised crime.

“The AFP is working alongside its partners at the border and offshore to share intelligence, track the movement of illicit drugs into Australia and ultimately prosecute those responsible for trafficking these destructive substances,” Command Kate Ferry said.

“To people who think methamphetamine may be harmless, the AFP estimates this seizure has saved the community more than $4 million in drug-related harm, including associated crime, healthcare and loss of productivity.”

Note to media:

Media are encouraged to include help-seeking information in stories about illicit drugs to minimise any negative impact on people in the community. The following services provide people with access to support and information.

For free and confidential advice about alcohol and other drug treatment services call the National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline on 1800 250 015. Access free 24/7 drug and alcohol counselling online at counsellingonline.org.au. For information about drug and alcohol addiction treatment or support, go to turningpoint.org.au.

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