A 26-year-old Thai flight attendant has been arrested after Australian authorities discovered more than one kilogram of heroin concealed in her luggage at Melbourne Airport, with the drugs estimated to have a black market value of around AUD500,000.
Get today's headlines by email 
According to the Australian Federal Police (AFP), the woman, who worked as cabin crew on an international flight, arrived at Melbourne Airport on 25 June 2026. Officers from the Australian Border Force (ABF) selected her luggage for a routine inspection.
During an X-ray examination, border officials detected irregularities in 12 fabric bags inside her luggage. A detailed search revealed white powder hidden within the lining of the bags.
Preliminary testing identified the substance as heroin weighing more than one kilogram. Authorities estimated the seized drugs had a street value of approximately AUD500,000. Following the discovery, ABF officers referred the case to the AFP, which arrested the suspect and seized the drugs as evidence.
The woman has been charged with two serious offences: importing a border-controlled drug in a commercial quantity, which carries a maximum penalty of 25 years’ imprisonment, and possessing a border-controlled drug in a commercial quantity, which also carries a maximum penalty of 25 years’ imprisonment.
The AFP said a court refused the woman bail on 26 June. She is due to appear again at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 14 September 2026.
Acting AFP Commander Simone Butcher said police would prosecute anyone who abused a position of trust to assist organised drug trafficking networks. She said the AFP would continue working closely with partner agencies to prevent illegal drugs entering Australia and protect communities from drug-related harm.
ThaiRath reported that ABF Commander Clint Sims said organised crime groups continued to target trusted positions, including airline crew and staff, to smuggle drugs into Australia. He said anyone attempting to import illegal drugs, regardless of their occupation, would face prosecution, adding that the ABF would continue using intelligence and advanced detection technology to strengthen border security and disrupt drug trafficking networks.
Picture courtesy of ThaiRath
Join the discussion? 
Already a member? 
Adapted by ASEAN Now ThaiRath 29 June 2026