Former Thai Airways International cabin attendant Meena Kondo has been remanded in custody after appearing before Melbourne Magistrates Court on a heroin-smuggling charge.
Kondo, 26, appeared on Monday morning, 14 September 2926, with her case put off until 12 October after her lawyer sought more time for "commenced resolution discussions", according to local media.
Magistrate Kieran Gilligan reportedly said the move was encouraging before ordering that she remain in custody until her next court appearance.
Arrest at Melbourne Airport
Kondo has been in police custody since her arrest at Melbourne Airport on 25 June, when she arrived on duty.
Australian authorities alleged that 1.8 kilogrammes of heroin had been concealed in the linings of 12 tote bags. Kondo was reportedly hired to carry the bags from Thailand to Australia.
The heroin seized from her luggage was estimated by Australian authorities to have a street value equivalent to 11.5 million baht.
She faces a drug-smuggling charge carrying a potential prison sentence of up to 25 years in Australia.
Thai trafficking investigation continues
In Thailand, investigators have arrested suspects accused of being part of a drug-trafficking network.
Authorities allege the group recruited unsuspecting people, including flight attendants, to transport goods containing concealed drugs to overseas destinations.
The case has also drawn attention to the risks for airline staff and frequent international travellers who may be asked to carry luggage or packages on behalf of others.
Kondo remains in custody while the Australian court process continues.
Picture courtesy of Daily News
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15 September 2026
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