An alleged attempt to smuggle more than $24 million worth of methamphetamine and heroin into Australia has been thwarted by border force officers.
Three Victorian men in their early twenties are due to appear in court on Saturday after allegedly trying to bring in more than 40 kilograms of illegal drugs.
The Australian Border Force intercepted the trio at Sydney Airport on Friday after their arrival from Thailand.
Their suitcases were x-rayed and then searched, allegedly revealing white powder in dozens of shrink-wrapped bricks that have tested positive for methamphetamine and heroin.
The street value of the 34kg of heroin is estimated at roughly $17 million.
The 8kg of methamphetamine is thought to be worth about $7.4 million.
The three men from Melbourne have been charged with importing and possessing large quantities of border-controlled drugs.
Each offence carries a maximum penalty of life in prison.
Federal police are investigating the matter.
Australian Federal Police detective superintendent Morgen Blunden said the alleged attempt to import illicit substances into the country was "brazen".
"Australian airports are not gateways for drug importations for criminal syndicates – anyone attempting to conceal illicit substances and enter our country will be caught and prosecuted," Det Supt Blunden said.
"This alleged attempt of not one – but three – alleged drug mules attempting to import illicit substances into our country is brazen."
Australian Border Force acting superintendent Neil Singh said criminal syndicates exploited vulnerable people and went to great lengths to import drugs into the country.
"They only care about turning a profit, they turn a blind eye to the damage and harm these substances cause to the community," Acting Supt Singh said.
