A Thai Airways flight attendant has been charged in Australia after authorities allegedly discovered more than one kilogram of heroin concealed inside tote bags at Melbourne Airport.
The 26-year-old woman, who was working as a cabin crew member for Thailand’s national carrier when she arrived in Australia on June 25, was stopped by Australian Border Force officers for inspection.
According to the Australian Federal Police (AFP), officers screened 12 tote bags belonging to the woman and allegedly found more than one kilogram of heroin hidden within the lining of the bags.
The seized drugs have an estimated street value of A$500,000, equivalent to approximately RM1.4 million.
She has been charged with one count of importing a marketable quantity of a border-controlled drug and one count of possessing a marketable quantity of a border-controlled drug. Each offence carries a maximum penalty of 25 years’ imprisonment under Australian law.
The woman was remanded in custody on June 26 and is scheduled to appear before the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Sept 14.
In a statement, Thai Airways said it enforces strict standards of conduct for all employees and will fully cooperate with the relevant authorities throughout the investigation.
AFP Acting Commander Simone Butcher said the agency remains committed to targeting individuals who misuse their employment or trusted positions to facilitate drug trafficking.
Australian Border Force Commander Clint Sims added that organised crime syndicates continue to recruit trusted insiders, including airline personnel, in attempts to smuggle illicit drugs into the country.
