A 26-year-old woman, a member of the aircrew on Thai Airways, was arrested at Melbourne Airport on Thursday after Australian authorities discovered over 1 kilogram of heroin hidden in her luggage. The heroin, valued at approximately $500,000 (€302,500), was found concealed in the linings of 12 tote bags during a baggage screening.
According to the Australian Federal Police (AFP), the woman will appear before a court in Melbourne in September and faces charges of importing and possessing prohibited substances, which can carry a penalty of up to 25 years in prison. The AFP has stated that it remains committed to targeting individuals who use their employment or community standing to support drug trafficking.
Thai Airways confirmed the employee's detention and emphasized its commitment to cooperating with authorities. The airline also reiterated its strict policy prohibiting employees from being involved in narcotics or any illegal substances.
This incident is one of several recent high-profile cases involving heroin smuggling into Australia, including a record seizure of 2.7 tons of cocaine at Sydney Airport earlier this year.