Passenger charged with drug importation in Sydney Harbour

A 48-year-old Brazilian man faces serious charges after authorities discovered illegal drugs in his cabin on a cruise ship docked in Sydney Harbour. The ship had arrived from Argentina when the search took place on Saturday. Australian Border Force (ABF) officials found 10 kilograms of cocaine hidden in the ceiling of the man's room. The drugs were packed into 28 individual parcels. These parcels tested positive for cocaine, according to the Australian Federal Police (AFP). During their investigation, the AFP also found body packing materials in the cabin. These materials are often used by drug couriers to smuggle drugs without being caught. Additionally, they discovered evidence on the man’s mobile phone linked to drug trafficking. The man has been charged with importing and possessing a large quantity of a controlled drug. Each of these charges could lead to a life sentence in prison. The AFP noted that the amount of cocaine could have been sold for around $3 million on the street. Officials highlighted the impact drug trafficking has on the community and the healthcare system. Between 2022 and 2023, Australia saw more than two hospitalizations each day related to drug use, according to official statistics. Border Force officials emphasized their readiness to detect and respond to drug smuggling attempts, particularly during the busy cruising season. They process thousands of passengers and crew members on international cruise ships arriving in Sydney.