Almost $9 million worth of cocaine was seized after Australian authorities intercepted a refrigerated shipping container on arrival at Port Botany, New South Wales.
Australian Border Force officers identified the consignment on 2 December 2025 and conducted an X-ray examination, which revealed anomalies at the rear of the container. A detailed inspection uncovered 22 individually wrapped plastic blocks with a total weight of 27kg. Presumptive testing indicated the contents were cocaine. Packages fitted with tracking devices were also found inside the container.
© Australian Federal Police and Australian Border Force
Authorities estimate the drugs had a value of about $9 million and could have produced roughly 135,000 street-level deals. The Australian Federal Police seized the consignment and are continuing inquiries. According to ABF figures, about 145kg of cocaine has been detected in refrigerated containers since October 2025.
AFP Detective Acting Superintendent Aaron Burgess said the investigation involved cooperation between national and international agencies. He stated that "cocaine is a highly addictive substance and causes significant harm in the community," and noted that syndicates continue to attempt to import drugs into Australia.
ABF Acting Superintendent Matt Hughes said sea cargo consignments undergo intelligence-based assessment before reaching Australian ports. He added that information-sharing between agencies provides a clearer picture of suspicious cargo movements and contributes to detection efforts.
Authorities will continue to examine the consignment and investigate any links to broader trafficking operations.
For more information:
AFP
Tel: +61 2 5126 9297
Email: [email protected]
www.afp.gov.au
