An 18-year-old American has been charged after allegedly attempting to smuggle more than 25 kilograms of methamphetamine into Australia.
The teenager was arrested at Sydney Airport on Wednesday by Australian Border Force (ABF) officers.
Upon arrival, the teenager’s two suitcases were subjected to a routine search, during which officers discovered more than 20 tightly-wrapped packages.
Initial testing indicated the substance was methamphetamine, leading to the seizure of 26 kilograms of the drug.
Federal police estimate the seized methamphetamine had the potential for 260,000 individual street deals, with a total street value exceeding $24 million.
The teenager was subsequently arrested and charged with one count of importing a border-controlled drug.
“Our ABF officers at the airport are highly skilled at observing passenger behaviors, relying on both intelligence and instinct to identify potential threats,” said Rose Cracknell, ABF Travel East Commander.
“This is a significant detection of methamphetamine, one which will stop potential harm to tens of thousands of families.”
The US citizen appeared at Sydney’s Downing Centre Local Court the following day, where he was refused bail.
He is scheduled to remain in custody until his next court appearance on July 24.
