SYDNEY: The Australian Federal Police (AFP) on Monday said it was investigating a scam where travellers to the country are offered millions of dollars to transport illicit drugs by individuals claiming to be United Nations (UN) officials, reported German news agency (dpa).
Two alleged drug mules were arrested in separate incidents in Melbourne this year, police said, with both individuals claiming to have been asked to transport luggage in exchange for payment by individuals claiming to work for the UN.
According to police, the alleged drug couriers were offered up to AU$35 million (US$23 million) to transport a suitcase into Australia.
A 39-year-old Australian man was arrested on July 25 as he landed in Melbourne from Singapore after officers allegedly identified three kilogrammes of methamphetamine concealed within the lining of the suitcase, the AFP said in a statement.
A day later, a 77-year-old New Zealand national travelling from Thailand was arrested in Melbourne for allegedly attempting to import two kilogrammes of heroin concealed in the lining of his suitcase, the AFP said.
Both men were charged with importing a commercial quantity of a border controlled drug, which carries the maximum penalty of up to life imprisonment.
“This United Nations drug mule scam is just another attempt by criminal syndicates who are desperate to import harmful illicit drugs and substances into our country,” said AFP Commander Raegan Stewart.
“It shows offenders will go to any lengths to bring illicit substances into our community, including scamming travellers offshore to do their dirty work.” – BERNAMA-dpa
