New Zealand Women Charged After Major Meth Seizure at Melbourne Airport
Melbourne, Australia – Two New Zealand women, both aged 22, are facing serious charges in Melbourne following the discovery and seizure of 36 kilograms of methamphetamine by Australian authorities. The substantial haul, which has an estimated street value exceeding AU$33 million (NZ$37.8 million), was found concealed in their suitcases upon their arrival at Melbourne Airport on a flight from Malaysia.
Drug Discovery and Arrest
The incident began when Australian Border Force (ABF) officers, as part of a routine baggage examination, singled out the two female passengers. During the inspection of their luggage, officers detected a white crystalline substance. Initial field tests confirmed the substance to be methamphetamine, leading to the immediate seizure of the illicit drugs, totalling approximately 36 kilograms.
Following the discovery, the matter was promptly handed over to the Australian Federal Police (AFP). Both women were arrested at the airport and subsequently charged with one count of importing a commercial quantity of a border controlled drug and one count of possession. Under Australian law, these grave offences carry a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
Significant Impact on Community
Law enforcement officials emphasized the significant potential impact of this seizure on the community. They estimate that the 36 kilograms of methamphetamine could have been divided into an alarming 360,000 street deals if it had successfully reached distribution channels. This interception represents a substantial blow to criminal networks attempting to exploit international air travel for drug trafficking.
Court Proceedings
The two accused women appeared before the Melbourne Magistrates' Court earlier this week, on Tuesday. During their appearance, they were remanded in custody, with their next scheduled court date set for March 13, 2026. The lengthy remand period underscores the seriousness of the charges they face.
Law Enforcement's Stance Against Drug Trafficking
Speaking on the operation, AFP Detective Acting Superintendent Jarrod Ragg highlighted the critical role of collaboration between the AFP and its law enforcement partners in disrupting criminal organizations that leverage air travel for international drug distribution. "Methamphetamine is linked to domestic violence, assaults on medical professionals, and violence on our streets," Ragg stated, emphasizing the wide-ranging social harm caused by the drug. He reiterated the AFP's readiness and capability to pursue those who prioritize personal gain over community welfare.
ABF Acting Superintendent Ian Beasant echoed these sentiments, affirming the Border Force's unwavering commitment to employing all available resources to prevent illicit substances from crossing Australia's borders. "Our ABF officers are seizing significant quantities of illicit drugs at and beyond the border, wresting profits from the hands of criminals and intercepting anyone that may pose a threat to the community," Beasant said. He concluded by noting that accumulating profit remains the sole driving factor behind the "nefarious activities" of organized crime groups.
