Three Australian men were sentenced this week for their roles in a failed attempt to smuggle 22.4 kg (49.4 pounds) of cocaine into Australia using five Xerox printers as concealment.
The plot was foiled in 2019 when authorities intercepted the shipment, according to a joint press release from the Australian Federal Police (AFP) and Australian Border Force (ABF).
How the smuggling attempt unfolded
In 2019, Australian news outlets first reported that the printers—specifically Xerox models—were used to hide the drugs. The cocaine was valued at approximately 9.3 million to 12.4 million AUD ($6.7 million to over $9 million at the time).
The men attempted to import the printers, unaware that border officials would detect the concealed narcotics during routine inspections.
Sentencing and legal consequences
The three men received prison sentences following their convictions. While the exact duration of their sentences was not disclosed in the AFP and ABF statement, the case highlights the risks and consequences of drug trafficking attempts using unconventional methods.
Australian authorities continue to crack down on drug smuggling operations, particularly those involving creative concealment tactics.
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