Japanese man arrested at Perth Airport after allegedly smuggling 9kg of meth in protein powder and stevia

A Japanese man could face life in prison after allegedly smuggling 9kg of methamphetamine — with a street value of about $8 million — in packets of protein powder and stevia through Perth Airport. Australian Border Force officers x-rayed the 32-year-old’s suitcase at the airport on December 21 after selecting him for a baggage examination. The man had arrived in Perth from New Zealand. Officers allegedly found “white powder” hidden inside packages of powdered food products after receiving a “positive reaction” from drug dogs. Substance testing later revealed a positive result for methamphetamine. The 32-year-old was arrested and charged with importing a commercial quantity of a border controlled drug — an offence which carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. The meth is believed to have an estimated street value of over $8 million and 90,000 street deals. He faced Perth Magistrates Court on Sunday where he was refused bail. He will front court again on January 13. AFP Detective acting inspector Tom Blakely the AFP was committed to stamping out criminal syndicates before they crossed the border. “Despite all the risks involved, we are still regularly arresting people who have attempted to bring illicit drugs into our country through our airports,” he said. “No matter how elaborate or creative the attempts are, the AFP and our partners are working tirelessly to prevent airports being used as part of the criminal supply chain.” ABF acting superintendent John Sweet said officers would continue to work over the festive season to detect and seize illegal imports. “We will use all available intelligence, skills, and technology, to disrupt the efforts of greedy criminals whose only thought is lining their pockets,” he said.