Customs and Border Protection officers in New South Wales have seized approximately 12 kilograms of ContacNT concealed in a stone dragon, skipping ropes and make-up brushes.

Customs and Border Protection National Manager Cargo Operations, Jagtej Singh, said that these seizures demonstrated the ability of officers to detect illegal imports.

“We use intelligence and a range of detection tools to inspect high-risk consignments. Regardless of the concealment method, we have the tools, technology and resources to detect and seize illegal goods.”

Customs and Border Protection officers inspected an air cargo consignment from Singapore and discovered approximately 4.6 kilograms of ContacNT concealed within the handles of make-up brushes.

On Thursday (10 January), officers inspected another consignment from Hong Kong and discovered approximately 5.5 kilograms of ContacNT concealed within the handles of skipping ropes.

In a separate incident on Thursday, officers inspected a consignment said to contain a stone dragon from China. The officers located approximately two kilograms of ContacNT concealed within the statue.

ContacNT is a cold and flu medication which contains high levels of pseudoephedrine, a precursor chemical used to manufacture amphetamine-type substances, such as methamphetamine. Importing pseudoephedrine into Australia is prohibited without a permit.

Those caught importing prohibited goods, such as ContacNT, could face a fine of up to $170,000 and/or five years in prison.