BRISBANE, Australia — Four women, including two teenagers, could face life behind bars after being accused of attempting to smuggle 30 kilograms of cocaine wrapped in vinegar and chilli-soaked towels into Australia.
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) reported that two 18-year-old women arrived in Brisbane from Hong Kong on Thursday and were intercepted by Australian Border Force (ABF) officers at the airport.
Upon inspection, officers allegedly discovered 30 packages of what has been dubbed “spicy drugs” concealed in towels soaked in vinegar and chilli, hidden within four suitcases. Testing allegedly confirmed the substance was cocaine.
The teenagers have been charged with one count each of importing a commercial quantity of a border-controlled substance.
Investigators subsequently arrested two additional women, aged 21 and 23, who allegedly provided instructions regarding the procurement of passports, airline tickets, and accommodation for the operation. Both were charged with attempting to possess a commercial quantity of a border-controlled drug.
All four women appeared before Brisbane Magistrates Court today. One of the 18-year-olds was formally refused bail and is scheduled to return to court on July 17. The other three women were granted conditional bail and are due back in court on July 18.
Under Australian law, the offences carry a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
