Two Hungarian nationals have been charged with allegedly importing heroin into Australia concealed internally.
Australian Border Force (ABF) officers selected the pair, both 33, for a baggage examination after they arrived at Perth Airport from overseas on Sunday, December 29, 2024.
During the examination, one of the men indicated that his stomach was hurting and wanted to be taken to the hospital.
AFP Inspector Shona Davis said anyone who concealed drugs internally risked more than substantial jail time.
“Drug couriers are risking their own lives by transporting these drugs, if any pellets rupture in a courier’s stomach or another part of their body, it would cause them to overdose,” Insp. Davis said.
After paramedics were called and assessed the men, the Australian Federal Police (AFP) were alerted, and an investigation commenced.
Both men were taken to Royal Perth Hospital where, for almost nine hours, one man excreted 30 pellets allegedly containing heroin, with an estimated total weight of 300 grams.
“We also want to remind people of the unhygienic way illicit drugs are produced and transported,” Insp. Davis said.
The other man vomited up two pellets and then excreted another 29 pellets during 30 hours. Those pellets – also alleged to contain heroin – had an estimated total weight of 310 grams.
Further testing is being undertaken. Police believe the combined weight of the seized substance is 610 grams.
That amount of heroin could have been sold as 3050 street deals, with a total estimated potential street value of more than $259,000.
The AFP will allege in court that the pair swallowed the pellets before travelling to Australia.
The AFP charged both men with one count each of importing a marketable quantity of a border-controlled drug, namely heroin, contrary to section 307.2 of the Criminal Code (Cth).
The maximum penalty for this offence is 25 years imprisonment.
The man who allegedly imported 31 pellets faced Northbridge Magistrates’ Court yesterday, January 1, 2025, and was remanded in custody to reappear in court on January 6, 2025.
The man who allegedly imported 30 pellets appeared in Northbridge Magistrates’ Court on Monday, December 30, 202,4 and was remanded in custody to reappear in court on February 14, 2025.
ABF Acting Superintendent John Sweet said ABF officers remain committed to detecting and apprehending anyone looking to smuggle illicit drugs into Australia.
“Our message is clear – if you are looking for a quick payday at the expense of our community, you will be caught and be met with the full weight of the law,” Acting Supt. Sweet said.
- 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 www.counsellingonline.org.au.
- For information about drug and alcohol addiction treatment or support, go to www.turningpoint.org.au.
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