More than 33.7 tonnes of illicit drugs and precursors have been seized at Australian borders and across the country in the past financial year, federal authorities say.
The seizures include 11 tonnes of methamphetamine, 6.8 tonnes of 1,4-butanediol, 5.6 tonnes of coctainem 1.8 tonnes of MDMA, 1.5 tonnes of ketamine and 745kg of heroin.
The total amount was an increase of 7.1 tonnes on the previous financial year.
Police say the seizure of the drugs prevented serious harm to Australians and makes for sobering reflection as the year draws to a close.
“Australia sadly remains a lucrative target for transnational serious organised crime and while these criminal syndicates continue to become more sophisticated in their attempts to smuggle harmful drugs into our country, the AFP and our law enforcement partners, remain a step ahead,” AFP Commander Paula Hudson said.
“The increase in the number of seizures at the border, and AFP successful operations across Australia, should also serve as a warning to the criminal syndicates which are trying to bring these illicit drugs into this country.
“We are watching, we are ready, and we will bring you to justice.”
There were 11,220 Australians hospitalised – the equivalent of over 30 hospitalisations every day in 2021-22 – from methamphetamine, cocaine or heroin consumption.
ABF Acting Commander Troy Sokoloff praised the efforts of Australian Border Force and Australian Federal Police officers in 2024.
“As the year draws to a close, it’s quite sobering to see these figures and to consider the immense community harm that has been prevented by the dedication and significant efforts of officers in our agencies and law enforcement partners,” Acting Commander Sokoloff said.
If you or someone you know needs help, please call the National Alcohol and Other Drug hotline on 1800 250 015 or call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
