Australian authorities have arrested and charged a 61-year-old Iranian man over an alleged attempt to import nearly 400 kilograms of methamphetamine into Sydney, with an estimated street value of $360 million.
The Australian Border Force (ABF) identified the shipment in June after detecting anomalies in three shipping containers carrying yellow metal crane structures. Upon further inspection, officers discovered concealed plastic pipes and packages hidden within the crane parts. Forensic analysis by the Australian Federal Police (AFP) confirmed the crystalline substance was methamphetamine.
In total, officers seized 390kg of illicit drugs.
Police allege the man arrived in Australia from Hamburg, Germany, on June 25, intending to take possession of the consignment once it cleared customs. He was arrested Sunday after a search warrant was executed at his Quakers Hill home.
During the search, investigators seized multiple items, including power tools and cutting equipment, believed to be linked to the planned retrieval of the drugs.
The man has been charged with:
- Attempting to possess a commercial quantity of unlawfully imported border-controlled drugs
- Participating in the business of importing commercial quantities of border-controlled drugs
Both offences carry a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
The accused appeared at Downing Centre Local Court yesterday and remains in custody as the investigation continues.
Authorities said the bust highlights the sophisticated concealment methods used by international crime syndicates, as well as the crucial role of border checks in intercepting large drug shipments.
