Major Drug Bust: $82 Million Cocaine Discovered Concealed in Brisbane Shipping Container

Image Credits: Wikipedia
In a recent report by the Australian Federal Police (AFP), a meaningful drug bust took place, resulting in the seizure of 253 kilograms of cocaine valued at around $82 million. This haul was discovered within a single shipping container in Brisbane.

On May 27, 2025, the Australian Border Force (ABF) received tips about a perhaps suspicious container arriving through maritime cargo.Acting swiftly, ABF officers utilized x-ray technology to scan the container adn detected irregularities inside.

Upon further inspection, thay uncovered five black plastic-wrapped bags resting atop pallets filled with polyethylene—a common packaging material. When they examined these bags more closely, initial tests indicated that the white powder inside was likely cocaine. Consequently, the case was handed over to the AFP for deeper investigation.

Image Credits: Australian Federal police/Facebook
The AFP later confirmed through forensic analysis that those bags contained exactly 253 kilograms of cocaine worth an estimated $82 million.

Ongoing investigations aim to track down those behind this smuggling attempt. A senior official from ABF emphasized that this accomplished operation highlights their teams’ vigilance and prompt actions. They also issued a stern warning to criminal organizations attempting to infiltrate Australia with drugs; thanks to advanced screening technologies and robust intelligence networks shared between ABF and AFP, such efforts are increasingly futile.

The AFP encourages anyone with details—no matter how minor it may seem—to come forward as it might very well be crucial in apprehending those involved in this thwarted drug trafficking effort.