Woman Arrested For Cocaine Importation

JOINT MEDIA RELEASE

27 February 2009

Woman arrested for cocaine importation


A 21-year-old American woman will face Sydney Central Local Court today
charged with attempting to smuggle approximately 700 grams of cocaine into
Australia through Sydney International Airport.

Customs and Border Protection officers questioned the woman when she
arrived on a flight from Los Angeles yesterday (26 February).

During a frisk search, officers found numerous pellets of white powder
concealed in a body belt around her waist. An additional pellet was later found
secreted internally.

The matter was referred to the Australian Federal Police and the woman was
charged with importing a marketable quantity of a border-controlled drug
contrary to section 307.2 of the Criminal Code Act 1995.

Initial testing indicated cocaine and further forensic testing will take place to
determine the exact weight and purity.

The maximum penalty for this offence is 25 years imprisonment and/or a
$550,000 fine.





Media inquiries:

Customs and Border Protection Communication and Media (02) 6275 6793

AFP National Media (02) 6275 7100