Record cocaine worth over K10 million confiscated at Jacksons International Airport    

Customs detect and seize a record 15.02kg of cocaine bound for Australia with a street value of over K12.3 million or Australian $5.2 million.

The PNG Customs Service has successfully foiled an attempted cocaine smuggling operation by apprehending two foreign nationals at Jackson’s International Airport in Port Moresby.

Customs Chief Commissioner David Towe said the drugs could have been worth Australia $5.2 million on the streets in Australia if PNG Customs had not detected and seized the illegal cargo.

He said the two foreign nationals, both female, are Portuguese passport holders aged 20 and 23 respectively.

The individuals, who had entered PNG on December 2, 2024, under the guise of tourists, were detained on December 7, 2024, just moments before boarding a Qantas flight bound for Brisbane, Australia.

“As they were awaiting their departure, Customs officers intercepted and conducted an examination on their luggage” Mr. Towe said.  

“The inspection revealed that both passengers were in possession of a total of 13 pieces of a swathed concealed white crystalline powder [and] subsequent testing confirmed the presence of cocaine. The passengers were therefore detained and handed over to the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary for further investigations.”

The Chief Commissioner added that Customs will also conduct a parallel investigation relating to breaches of the Customs Act.

“Customs is committed and focused on identifying and disrupting those who attempt to import or export illicit substances at our borders.

“We will continue to work closely with our partners to protect the PNG community from the scourge of illicit drugs.

“The PNG Customs Service is also committed to upholding the integrity of our borders and ensuring the safety and security of our citizens.

“This successful interception sends a clear message that smuggling illicit substances will not be tolerated, and those who attempt such criminal acts will face the full force of the law.

“We urge all travelers to adhere to Customs regulations and refrain from engaging in illegal activities that jeopardize the safety and well-being of our communities.”