Is this Australia's laziest drug mule? Teenager arrested at major airport after allegedly hiding $24 million worth of meth in his luggage

• Teenager arrested at Sydney Airport on Wednesday
• About $24 million worth of meth reportedly discovered

A teenager has been charged after allegedly trying to smuggle methamphetamine worth more than $24 million, estimated at 260,000 street sales, into Australia.

The 18-year-old American traveler was arrested by Australian Border Force officers at Sydney Airport on Wednesday after landing in Australia from the United States.

Officers seized a total of 26 kilograms of methamphetamine, with an estimated street value of more than $24 million, after finding more than 20 packages wrapped in plastic film in the man's two suitcases.

Australian Federal Police officers were informed and attended the airport to investigate further.

The man was subsequently arrested and charged with importing a controlled drug across the border.

He was refused bail on Thursday in Downing Center Local Court in Sydney and his next appearance will be on July 24.

AFP Detective Superintendent Peter Fogarty said the 26kg of methamphetamine could have been split into around 260,000 individual street sales.

“Criminal groups continue their efforts to import these insidious substances and the negative impact that illicit drugs have on the Australian community cannot be overstated,” Detective Superintendent Fogarty said.

“Our message remains clear: those who seek to harm Australians, we will find you and you will be brought before the court where you could face life in prison.”

ABF Travel East commander Rose Cracknell said the detection showed how some individuals and syndicates were “taking brazen risks to try to circumvent our borders”.

“Our ABF officers at the airport are highly trained in observing passenger behavior, relying not only on intelligence but also on instinct to identify potential threats,” Commander Cracknell said.

“This is a significant detection of methamphetamine, which will stop potential harm to tens of thousands of families.”

“This should also serve as a warning to any other travelers who wish to take up the challenge and attempt to circumvent our border controls – we will stop you in your tracks and you will be brought to justice.”