Almost eight kilograms of ice was discovered by authorities flowing into Queensland in the lead up to Schoolies Week on the Sunshine Coast. Four separate loads of the drug were found hidden in objects such as computer mics, stereo speakers, plastic bottles and a porcelain horse ornament.

Australian Border Force (ABF) and Australian Federal Police (AFP) officers said in a statement that 7.7 kilograms of drugs had been found in parcels sent from China, Hong Kong and the US between late October and early November.

The largest batch amounted to 3.9 kilograms of methamphetamine. The drug was hidden in 34 plastic bottles and addressed to the Queensland suburb of Gavin. A 37-year-old man, of no fixed address, was arrested in Queensland in connection to the import.

ABF Queensland Regional Commander Terry Price has warned members of the community to be “vigilant over schoolies week and the summer holiday period when criminal groups attempt to take advantage of end of year celebrations.”

Commander Price also warned criminals that ABF officers are “on constant alert” for any attempted illegal drug imports through all Australian Border entry points, and that anyone found with illegal substances can face lengthy jail terms.

“ABF officers and systems are primed to detect any suspicious parcels and disrupt drug importation before the drugs hit the streets,” he said.

The drug busts come after Surfers Paradise police seized 128 ecstasy pills and a small amount of liquid fantasy vials during an arrest at a local unit on Wednesday, 18 November, two days before Schoolies was set to begin. A 32-year-old man was charged with possessing and supplying drugs, and possessing drug utensils.

AFP State Manager Queensland, Commander Sharon McTavish said events like Schoolies provide a target market for people who import and distribute drugs.

“Law enforcement agencies are working together across countries, across states, and across cities to keep dangerous substances off our streets,” said Commander McTavish.

“If you are importing or distributing drugs assume law enforcement agencies are watching and don’t presume we aren’t. Expect that sooner or later we will knock on your door.”

Anyone with information regarding the distribution or importation of drugs is urged to call Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000.

Contact the writer at feedback@ibtimes.com.au, or let us know what you think below.

RELATED STORIES