Detector dog finds heroin in sneakers

A Customs detector dog at Melbourne International Airport has stopped an alleged attempt by a passenger to smuggle heroin in his sneakers.

The 46-year-old United States citizen faced court yesterday, charged with importing a marketable quantity of heroin.

The Customs detector dog reacted positively to the passenger’s shoes when he arrived on a flight from Vietnam yesterday.

The shoes were then subjected to an x-ray scan, which revealed a package concealed under the sole of each shoe.

Initial tests indicated that white powder found in the packages was heroin, with a gross weight in excess of one kilogram.

Forensic analysis will be performed to determine the exact quantity and nature of the substance.

The man was referred to the Australian Federal Police (AFP).

The AFP charged the man with importing and possessing a marketable quantity of a border controlled drug, contrary to the Criminal Code Act 1995.

The maximum penalty for these offences is 25 years imprisonment and/or a fine of $550,000.

The man was remanded in custody and is due to appear again at Melbourne Magistrates Court on 28 October 2008.