Australian Federal Police (AFP) officers met officials from Thailand’s Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) in Bangkok on 1 July to exchange information on transnational drug trafficking investigations, including the case of a Thai Airways flight attendant accused of carrying heroin into Australia.
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The meeting took place at the ONCB headquarters in Din Daeng, Bangkok. Discussions focused on progress in the investigation involving Ms Meena, a 26-year-old cabin crew member who was arrested by Australian authorities at Melbourne Airport on 25 June 2026.
Authorities allege that Ms Meena was found carrying 1 kilogramme of heroin concealed in her luggage. She remains in custody in Australia and is scheduled to appear before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 14 September 2026.
Officials from both countries discussed efforts to expand the investigation, including information obtained during questioning of Ms Meena. Investigators are seeking to establish who was intended to receive the package, where the handover was due to take place, and whether others were involved in the operation.
The talks also covered wider criminal cases involving international drug trafficking networks. Particular attention was given to instances where Thailand has been used as a transit point for narcotics destined for third countries, with Australia identified as one of the most common destinations.
Representatives examined measures to strengthen security and improve the interception of illegal drug shipments moving between Thailand and Australia. The discussions form part of ongoing cooperation between the two countries in combating organised transnational crime.
The ABF operates under Australia’s Department of Home Affairs and combines functions similar to customs, immigration enforcement and border security agencies. Its responsibilities include checking passports, visas and travellers entering or leaving the country, inspecting luggage and goods for prohibited items, and enforcing laws against drug trafficking, human trafficking and other organised criminal activities.
ABF officers also oversee security operations at international airports, ports and border crossings. The agency regularly operates at major Australian airports including Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.
Daily News reported that as the investigation continues, authorities in both countries are expected to maintain information-sharing arrangements while pursuing further leads linked to the alleged trafficking network. The next significant development in the case is Ms Meena’s scheduled court appearance in Melbourne on 14 September 2026.
Picture courtesy of Daily News
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 1 July 2026