Australian Border Force targets aviation workers

BTN News
Tuesday, 02 July 2024

In Australia, a Border Force investigation has accused 70 Melbourne airport staff of breaching security checks, with some suspected of working for organised criminals trying to smuggle drugs into Australia.


Airline crew members were also found to have hidden illegal cigarettes and tobacco products in false-bottom suitcases in an attempt to avoid taxes.

Kelly-Anne Parish, a Border Force superintendent, said portable X-ray machines had been used to scan plane baggage storage, cargo holds and crew areas during the investigation, which was carried out with industry assistance.

“Ensuring a safe environment from criminal exploitation of the aviation supply chain for the Australian community and those who work in the aviation industry is a top priority,” she said.

Parish said the ongoing investigation was focused on several people in aviation with alleged links to transnational organised crime groups.

Australian Border Force targets aviation workers

BTN News
Tuesday, 02 July 2024

In Australia, a Border Force investigation has accused 70 Melbourne airport staff of breaching security checks, with some suspected of working for organised criminals trying to smuggle drugs into Australia.


Airline crew members were also found to have hidden illegal cigarettes and tobacco products in false-bottom suitcases in an attempt to avoid taxes.

Kelly-Anne Parish, a Border Force superintendent, said portable X-ray machines had been used to scan plane baggage storage, cargo holds and crew areas during the investigation, which was carried out with industry assistance.

“Ensuring a safe environment from criminal exploitation of the aviation supply chain for the Australian community and those who work in the aviation industry is a top priority,” she said.

Parish said the ongoing investigation was focused on several people in aviation with alleged links to transnational organised crime groups.