The woman allegedly attempted to smuggle 124 cocaine pellets (almost 1kg) through Perth International, including the eight she had to re-ingest after excreting them during her travel. Source: Australian Federal Police
A 27-year-old Austrian woman who allegedly ingested 124 capsules filled with cocaine to smuggle into Australia has become the third person charged in the past two months for allegedly importing drugs concealed internally.
According to Australian Federal Police (AFP) on Sunday, the total weight of cocaine is about 1 kilogram. The AFP charged her with one count of importing a marketable quantity of cocaine—this carries a maximum penalty of 25 years in prison.
The woman also allegedly excreted eight of the capsules, which she then re-swallowed, during her travel to Perth International Airport from Europe on February 11.
She was taken to Royal Perth Hospital, where she excreted the pellets under medical supervision.
She has since faced Perth Magistrates Court on February 14, and was remanded in custody to reappear on March 10.
AFP Commander Kate Ferry said that the detection of the three recent alleged internal drug imports was a concerning trend, due to the substantial health risks faced by anyone that ingests drug packets.
“Anyone trying to move drugs across borders concealed inside their bodies is not only risking a substantial jail term but potentially a fatal drug overdose or permanent damage to their internal organs,” she said.
“The AFP estimates the seizure of these three illicit imports has saved the community more than $1.75 million in drug-related harm, including associated crime, healthcare and loss of productivity.
“The photographs of the seized pellets of drugs after they’ve been excreted should also highlight to drug users the disgusting reality of how these illicit substances are transported across the world.”
ABF Superintendent Vesna Gavranich agreed with Commander Ferry’s warning.
“This type of disgusting behaviour is not worth the risk to your life,” Superintendent Gavranich said.
“Our officers are highly trained in detecting and disrupting attempts to import illicit substances. We will ensure you are caught and face prosecution.
“As the first line of defence for our community, the ABF, along with our law enforcement partners, will continue to make it a hostile place for criminals involved in the importation of illegal drugs.”
Earlier this month, over half a billion dollars worth of cocaine was also found floating off of the coast of New Zealand.
The following services provide people with access to support and information regarding drug use:
- 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 counsellingonline.org.au
- For information about drug and alcohol addiction treatment or support, go to turningpoint.org.au
