Brazilian man arrested in Sydney for cocaine smuggling

A Brazilian man has been arrested in Australia after authorities found a significant amount of cocaine in his cruise ship cabin. Adriano Gustavo Leonardi Thiem, 48, was taken into custody when the ship arrived in Sydney Harbour from Argentina on March 16, 2025. Australian Border Force agents discovered 28 packages of cocaine, weighing about 10 kilograms, hidden in the ceiling of Thiem's cabin. The street value of the drugs is estimated to be around $3 million. Police also found materials used for smuggling drugs. Initial tests confirmed the substance was cocaine, prompting the Australian Federal Police (AFP) to investigate further. They examined Thiem's phone, which allegedly contained evidence linked to drug trafficking. Thiem faces serious charges, including importing and possessing a commercial quantity of a controlled drug. Each charge could result in a life sentence in prison. AFP officials noted that drug traffickers prioritize profit over community health and safety. Border Force representatives emphasized the importance of their role in preventing drug smuggling. They are committed to keeping Australian ports safe, especially during the cruise season when illegal activities may increase.