THE AUSTRALIAN Border Force (ABF) Maritime Operations branch has seized more than 50kg of cocaine hidden inside heavy vehicles during a targeted inspection in Brisbane.
The drugs, 19 plastic-wrapped blocks concealed within a green tractor destined for Port Kembla, consisted of two separate consignments.
Samples taken from the blocks underwent testing and returned presumptive positive results for cocaine.
ABF Maritime Operations Queensland superintendent, Jim Ley, said ABF officers were vigilant in detecting and disrupting attempts to conceal illicit drugs within legitimate trade pathways.
Image: ABF
“Criminal syndicates use a range of concealment methods, including heavy machinery, to avoid detection at the border. ABF officers are alert to these tactics and will continue to detect and disrupt them at the border," Supt Ley said.
“This detection demonstrates the professionalism and expertise of our ABF Maritime Operations officers. Every day they conduct thorough inspections to disrupt serious and organised crime before harmful drugs can reach the Australian community."
In total, 22.25kg of cocaine was detected, with an estimated street value of about $7.1 million.
Following further enquiries, ABF officers from Maritime Operations NSW conducted further inspections upon the vessel's arrival at Port Kembla.
It was later discovered with a duffle bag located within a separate yellow tractor and consignment was destined for Melbourne.
Presumptive testing returned a positive reading for cocaine, with an estimated 30kg located inside the bag.
The drugs were seized and an investigation has commenced into the circumstances surrounding the attempted import.
The ABF continue to work with domestic and international partners to identify emerging concealment methods and protect Australia's borders from criminal exploitation.