Perth Airport: German Man Charged Over $1.3m Cocaine Seizure

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A 77-year-old German national is set to face Perth Magistrates Court today (21 August 2025) after being charged with attempting to import around four kilograms of cocaine into Australia.

The man was stopped by Australian Border Force (ABF) officers on 8 August 2025 after arriving on an international flight into Perth Airport. During a baggage examination, officers inspected his small suitcase and backpack, which contained two mini briefcases.

According to ABF, each briefcase had hidden inserts that concealed packages filled with a white substance. Presumptive testing confirmed the substance was cocaine, with an estimated total weight of four kilograms.

Following the discovery, ABF alerted the Australian Federal Police (AFP), who arrested the man at the airport. He was charged with importing a commercial quantity of a border-controlled drug, namely cocaine, contrary to section 307.1(1) of the Commonwealth Criminal Code. The offence carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.

The accused made an initial appearance in court on 9 August and was remanded in custody until today’s scheduled hearing.

AFP Superintendent Peter Hatch said the seizure prevented a significant amount of cocaine from reaching Australian communities.

“This seizure could have equated to about 20,000 individual street deals of 0.2 grams, with an estimated street value of $1.3 million destined for criminal networks,” Supt Hatch said.

“Despite repeated warnings, ABF and AFP continue to intercept individuals attempting to traffic illicit drugs through our airports. Our collaboration with ABF and other agencies is critical in protecting the community and ensuring traffickers do not profit at the expense of Australians.”

ABF Superintendent John Eldridge said criminal groups consistently look for new ways to smuggle drugs across borders, but officers remain focused on disrupting their operations.

“Criminal syndicates prey on vulnerabilities to move contraband into the country, and it is our job as Australia’s border agency to identify and stop this activity,” Supt Eldridge said.

“Through intelligence-led targeting and close information sharing, ABF and AFP officers work together to intercept prohibited substances and protect our borders.”

The case highlights ongoing joint efforts between Australia’s law enforcement and border protection agencies to tackle international drug trafficking.