Man Arrested For Drugs At Perth Airport

28 July 2009




Media Release


Man arrested for drugs at Perth Airport


A 21-year-old man from Cabramatta, NSW has been charged after being arrested
at Perth Airport for drug possession and unlawful possession of currency.
Three men were allegedly seen acting suspiciously in the airport terminal
yesterday. As a result, an Australian Federal Police currency and drug canine
was deployed within the vicinity for screening.
The canine subsequently reacted to a number of items and individuals, including
the 21-year-old man.
A subsequent search of the man allegedly revealed approximately 90 grams of
methamphetamine, approximately 1.5 grams of heroin and about $14,000 in
Australian currency. Another $30,000 was located in possession of the male's
travelling companions.
The substances will undergo forensic testing to confirm their composition, exact
weight and purity.
"This arrest serves as a reminder to Australian domestic drug couriers that they
will also face charges as a result of the currency and drug detection capabilities
of the AFP at airports", AFP Manager Aviation Operations Support Commander
Glen McEwen said today.
The AFP deploys currency and drug detection canines as broad screening tools
within the domestic aviation environment, under the Unified Policing model.
These canines support wider aviation security and criminal deterrence measures.
The 21-year-old man will appear in Perth Magistrates Court today. He has been
charged with various offences relating to drug possession and supply, contrary to
section 6 (1) and 6 (2) of the Misuse of Drugs Act (WA) 1981, as well as charges
including unlawful possession of currency, contrary to section 428 (1) of the
Criminal Code Act (WA) 1913.
The two other men were detained yesterday, but released without charge
pending further investigation.
The maximum penalty for these offences is 25 years imprisonment and/or a
$100,000 fine.
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