Australian Customs and Border Protection Service (ACBPS) officers have seized over 20,000 “ice” pipes at the Brisbane Air Cargo Facility.
The seizure began after the ACBPS officers had concerns over the description of goods on a consignment that arrived in Brisbane from China.
Irregularities were found on the x-ray that was carried out on the shipment. When officers physically examined the cargo, they were shocked to find 7000 glass pipes packed into 35 packages.
The following day a second consignment arrived of 69 packages. These cartons contained 13,800 glass ice pipes.
The pipes have been seized by ACBPS under the legislation prohibiting the import of devices for the administration of amphetamine-type substances.
Following the two finds, search warrants were carried out on two premises in Brisbane.
“Methamphetamine use is a national concern and there is no place for these products in our communities or on our streets,” ACBPS Regional Commander QLD, Dr Ben Evans said.
“Under Customs legislation, we are able to stop these products at the border and pursue prosecution of those who may be tempted to endanger our community by importing such items.”
Regulation 4I of the Customs (Prohibited Import) Regulations 1956 controls the importation of ‘ice’ pipes, and under Section 233(1) (b) of the Customs Act 1901, it is an offence to import the pipes.
The maximum penalty for this offence is a fine of up to $170,000.
