Thai Airways Crew Member Arrested for Heroin Smuggling in Australia

Australian police arrested a 26-year-old Thai Airways crew member at Melbourne airport on June 25 after finding 1 kg of heroin hidden in the lining of her luggage, the force said. The woman had 12 tote bags in her possession, and the drug was concealed in the lining. The street value is about A$500,000 (US$345,000).

She faces charges of importing and possessing a commercial quantity of a border-controlled drug. A conviction carries a maximum prison sentence of 25 years, police said. Her next court appearance is scheduled for Sept. 14.

Thai Airways said it is cooperating with the investigation and will take decisive action if misconduct is proven. The airline added that it has been coordinating with authorities to ensure the employee has access to basic legal rights.

The Australian Federal Police and the Australian Border Force conducted the arrest. The investigation remains active.