TL;DR
Australian authorities disrupted a drug smuggling operation involving Xerox printers concealed with cocaine in 2017. Several men were arrested and sentenced, highlighting evolving tactics by organized crime.
Australian authorities foiled a plot to smuggle approximately 49 pounds (22.4 kg) of cocaine into the country using Xerox printers concealed with drugs, according to a recent announcement from the Australian Federal Police (AFP) and Australian Border Force (ABF).
On April 30, 2017, authorities intercepted five Xerox printers in Melbourne that contained 10 packages of compressed white powder, which presumptive testing confirmed to be cocaine. The drugs had an estimated street value of over 9 million AUD ($6.7 million) to 12.4 million AUD ($9 million).
Authorities replaced the cocaine with an alternative material and sent the printers to their original destination, a factory in Airport West, Victoria. During the investigation, tracking devices were reportedly placed in the printers to monitor their movement.
In May 2017, four men were arrested attempting to retrieve the printers. They were charged with attempting to possess a commercial quantity of a border-controlled drug. One of the men was sentenced this month to nine years in prison with a non-parole period of four and a half years. Two others received sentences of 10 years with non-parole periods of over five years, while the fourth man was acquitted.
Why It Matters
This case exemplifies the increasingly sophisticated methods used by organized crime groups to smuggle illegal drugs into Australia. The successful interception and subsequent sentencing underscore the effectiveness of border security measures and international cooperation in combating drug trafficking.
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Background
In 2019, Australian news outlets first reported on the seizure of cocaine concealed within Xerox printers, highlighting the evolving tactics of traffickers. The incident remains one of the notable cases demonstrating the use of everyday commercial equipment for illicit purposes. The sentences handed down in recent years reflect ongoing efforts to deter such operations and dismantle organized crime networks involved in drug importation.
“The AFP, as well as our domestic and international partners, are steadfast in our mission to protect the community by disrupting and dismantling organized crime groups and their efforts to profit off the misery caused in our community.”
— Australian Federal Police acting commander Simone Butcher
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What Remains Unclear
While the initial interception and arrests occurred in 2017, details about the full scope of the operation and the identities of all involved remain limited. It is also unclear if similar methods are currently being employed by traffickers or if additional seizures are forthcoming.
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What’s Next
Authorities are likely to continue monitoring for similar tactics and may pursue further investigations into organized crime groups involved in drug trafficking. Legal proceedings related to remaining suspects or additional operations could emerge in the coming months.
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Key Questions
How were the cocaine packages concealed inside the printers?
The cocaine was hidden in 10 packages of compressed white powder concealed within the paper trays of the Xerox printers.
What was the estimated value of the seized cocaine?
The street value of the cocaine was estimated at over 9 million AUD ($6.7 million) to 12.4 million AUD ($9 million).
What sentences did the convicted men receive?
One man was sentenced to nine years with a non-parole period of four and a half years; two others received 10-year sentences with non-parole periods over five years; one man was acquitted.
Are similar smuggling methods still being used today?
It is currently unclear if traffickers continue to use similar tactics involving everyday commercial equipment like printers. Authorities remain vigilant for such methods.
