If convicted, 91-year-old Australian accused of smuggling cocaine could get life in prison

Officials in Australia say a 91-year-old Sydney man could spend the rest of his life in prison if convicted of bringing cocaine-laced soap into the country — even if he was an unwitting courier.

The man, whose name has not been released, has been charged with bringing 10 pounds of cocaine into Sydney Airport following a flight from New Delhi, The Associated Press reports. The Department of Immigration and Border Protection said in a statement 27 packages of soap that tested positive for the drug were found in his suitcase. If convicted, the man could receive a life sentence.

Police haven't said if they think he was an accidental drug mule, but did say it really doesn't matter even if that is the case. "People can expect they will be charged if they knowingly bring drugs into Australia, or are reckless or willfully blind to the fact that there could be narcotics concealed inside their luggage or items they are carrying," Australian Federal Police Manager Wayne Buchhorn said.

The Week

Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.

SUBSCRIBE & SAVE

Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters

From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.

From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.

Sign up