Australian Border Force officers found about 30 kg of cocaine hidden in this tractor on a ship at Port Kembla. Photo: ABF.
Cocaine with a street value of more than $7 million hidden in a tractor has been seized on a ship bound for Port Kembla.
During a targeted inspection in Brisbane on Monday, 6 April, Australian Border Force (ABF) officers from the Maritime Operations branch found 19 plastic-wrapped blocks concealed within a green tractor destined for Port Kembla.
Samples taken from the blocks were tested and returned positive results for cocaine.
In total, 22.25 kg of cocaine was detected, with an estimated street value of about $7.1 million.
When the ship arrived at Port Kembla, ABF officers conducted additional inspections and found a duffel bag in a second tractor, along with a consignment destined for Melbourne.
Officers found an estimated 30 kg of cocaine.
An investigation is underway into the circumstances surrounding the attempted importation.
ABF Maritime Operations Queensland Superintendent Jim Ley said ABF officers remained vigilant in detecting and disrupting attempts by organised crime groups to conceal illicit drugs within legitimate trade pathways.
“Criminal syndicates use a range of concealment methods, including heavy machinery, to avoid detection at the border,” Supt Ley said.
“ABF officers are alert to these tactics and will continue to detect and disrupt them at the border.
“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.”
Anyone with information about this attempted importation, or any serious organised crime, is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Information about suspicious activity that could impact Australia’s borders should be reported to Border Watch online.
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