The AFP started “Operation Birkin” in April 2024 after Border Force officials inspected six boxes that arrived at Sydney’s Port Botany from Thailand.
Examining the shipment, they found crates of black leather sandals, with the drugs allegedly hidden inside the soles.
The box had been addressed to a storage facility in western Sydney, police said.
During the investigation into the illicit sandals, the AFP allegedly observed a Malaysian national attempt to collect the boxes from the storage facility.
Police followed the man, and allegedly observed him driving down the Hume Highway from Sydney to Melbourne.
A number of fake phones were seized, and the man was charged with attempting to possess a commercial quality of meth.
The offence carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
AFP Sergeant Alex Drummond said the AFP and its partners were committed to preventing dangerous drugs from making it onto Australian streets.
“The AFP will continue to work tirelessly to keep these dangerous drugs off the streets and ensure those hellbent on poisoning the community see justice,” he said.
The man appeared before Melbourne Magistrates Court yesterday morning and was refused bail.
He will return to the same court on August 30, later this year.
In a recent bust, Australian Federal Police and Border Force intercepted 100 kilograms of methamphetamine concealed inside leather sandals. The operation, dubbed “Operation Birkin,” was initiated in April 2024 after authorities inspected boxes arriving from Thailand at Sydney’s Port Botany. The crates contained black leather sandals with drugs hidden in the soles.
The shipment was destined for a storage facility in western Sydney. During the investigation, a Malaysian national was observed trying to collect the boxes and driving from Sydney to Melbourne. The man was arrested at his home in Burwood, Victoria, and charged with attempting to possess methamphetamine.
The seized drugs were estimated to have a significant street value, and the suspect faces a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. AFP Sergeant Alex Drummond emphasized the commitment to combating drug trafficking and ensuring justice for offenders. The accused appeared in court and was denied bail, with a scheduled return for further proceedings.\
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