Elderly couple duped into acting as drug mules

It seemed like a dream come true — a free holiday to Canada complete with new luggage — until the Australian couple involved realised they had unwittingly become drug mules.

Australian Federal Police said the pair, a 72-year-old man and 64-year-old woman, told Customs officials they had some concerns about their bags when they returned to Perth International Airport on Oct 13.

On examination, some 3.5 kilograms (7.7 pounds) of methamphetamine was found stashed within the lining of each bag, which police reportedly believe were swapped while in Canada.

“The Australian Federal Police will allege the couple were victims of an elaborate scam and were unwitting participants in the drug importation,” police said in a statement.

Perth couple unwittingly used as drug mules. Thought they'd won all expenses paid Canada trip which came w free luggage, (& mil of drugs!)

— Dan Cox (@CoxDan) October 25, 2013

Wow - elaborate drug trafficking scam gave elderly couple prize of all expenses paid trip to Canada with free luggage. (Drugs in luggage)

— Jackie Katsianas (@JackieK_) October 25, 2013

Authorities said the scam by a bogus Canada-based tour company calling itself ‘AusCan Tours’ apparently targeted older people, offering two tickets to Canada, seven nights’ accommodation and new luggage as a prize.

“The organisers of this scam went to great lengths to provide a facade of legitimacy,” Perth airport police commander David Bachi said.

“Thankfully the travellers contacted Customs and didn’t dismiss their concerns, allowing us to make the arrest.”

Authorities arrested a 38-year-old Canadian man at the airport the day the couple returned and have since charged him with importing a commercial quantity of a border-controlled drug.

A raid on a hotel in the Perth suburb of Scarborough uncovered documents allegedly associated with the scam, along with electronic equipment, two suitcases (similar to the ones seized at the airport) and Aus$15,000 in cash.