This is a joint media release with Australian Border Force
An Irish national appeared in the Melbourne Magistrates Court yesterday (19 July, 2023) for allegedly importing GBL and methamphetamine through Melbourne International Airport.
The man, 32, arrived into Melbourne on an international flight on Tuesday, 18 July, 2023 and after collecting multiple bags from the luggage carousel, was selected for a secondary baggage screening by the Australian Border Force (ABF).
During the baggage examination, ABF identified 1.5L of GBL and about 5 grams of methamphetamine in the man's luggage.
The matter was reported to the AFP for investigation and the man was later charged.
The man was charged with:
- Importing a marketable quantity of a border controlled substance, namely methamphetamine, contrary to subsection 307.2(1) of the Criminal Code (Cth),
- Possessing a marketable quantity of a border controlled substance, namely methamphetamine, contrary to subsection 307.9(1) of the Criminal Code (Cth); and
- Importing a commercial quantity of a border controlled substance, namely Gammabutyrolactone (GBL), contrary to subsection 307.1(1) of the Criminal Code (Cth).
The maximum penalty for this offence is life imprisonment.
Detective Acting Superintendent Amanda Glover said the AFP is working closely with its law enforcement partners to stop illicit drugs from reaching our communities.
"We know the significant impact methamphetamine and other drugs have on individuals and our communities - that's why we're committed to stopping the flow at our borders.
"The AFP will continue to prioritise national security at designated airports and remains focused on preventing, disrupting and responding to security and criminal activity," D/A/Supt Glover said.
ABF Superintendent Kelly-anne Parish said this detection is another example that highlights the important work ABF officers conduct on the frontline every day to protect the Australian community from illegal drugs.
"Our highly skilled officers are alert to the diverse drug concealment methods passengers arriving by air attempt and have the expertise and technological capability to identify those responsible and hold them to account," Superintendent Parish said.
If you require police presence at an airport, or wish to report an incident or provide information please call the AFP's Airport Watch on 131 AFP (131 237).
For police, fire or ambulance response to an emergency or life threatening situation, call 000.
