Cocaine Worth $82 Million Hidden In Shipping Container Seized At Brisbane Port

In a joint operation, the Australian Federal Police (AFP) and the Australian Border Force (ABF) have seized 253 kilograms of cocaine with an estimated street value of $82 million, found inside a single shipping container in Brisbane.

The ABF received intelligence on May 27, 2025 about a suspicious container that had entered Australia via the sea cargo stream. ABF officers responded quickly by scanning the container using x-ray technology, which revealed anomalies inside.

After opening the container for further inspection, officers found five carry bags wrapped in black plastic, which had been placed on top of pallets carrying polyethylene, a material commonly used for packaging.

When the officers checked the contents of the bags, they found a white substance, which returned a presumptive positive result for cocaine during initial testing. Based on this result, the ABF handed over the case to the Australian Federal Police.

The AFP later confirmed through forensic testing that the substance inside the bags was indeed 253 kilograms of cocaine, worth approximately $82 million.

Authorities confirmed that investigations are still underway to identify those responsible for the attempted smuggling. A senior ABF official said that the successful seizure was made possible by the alertness and quick action of ABF and AFP teams.

The official also warned that criminal syndicates trying to smuggle drugs into Australia should take this as a clear warning, stating that the ABF, working closely with the AFP, has access to advanced screening tools, intelligence networks, and a strong commitment to public safety.

The AFP urged people to share any information, even small details, as it could help them find those behind the failed drug smuggling attempt.

Reference: AFP

Source: Maritime Shipping News