Black fluid oozing from the handle of a suitcase alerted Australian Border Force officers to an alleged attempt to import heroin into Adelaide.
Using intelligence-led screening and officer intuition, Australian Border Force (ABF) officers conducted a full examination and searched the luggage of a man who had arrived at Adelaide Airport on July 29 from overseas.
The officers allegedly identified a black fluid oozing from the handle of the man’s suitcase.
A presumptive test of the substance returned a positive result for heroin, with about 500g removed from the suitcase.
The 47-year-old Australian-Afghan dual citizen was charged with one count of importing a marketable quantity of a border controlled substance in the Adelaide Magistrates Court.
The maximum penalty for this offence was 25 years’ imprisonment.
ABF Superintendent Jody Griswood said this detection highlighted the vigilance and experience of ABF officers on the front line, who were crucial in stopping harmful substances from reaching Australian streets.
“ABF officers at the border are highly trained, experienced and alert. They know exactly what to look for when selecting travellers and their baggage for further examination,” Griswood said.
“This isn’t an isolated case and it’s not based on luck.”
AFP Detective Acting Superintendent Simon Lalic said agencies worked together to disrupt anyone who attempted to import harmful, illicit substances into Australia.
“Criminals are motivated by greed. They have no regard for the significant harmful impacts these illicit drugs have on our community.”
The man was expected to reappear in court in September.