Clarification of drug haul - confirmation that the accused are not licensed customs brokers

In articles published across the world last week announcing arrests in relation to this nation's largest methamphetamine haul, the Australian Federal Police (AFP) were quoted as describing two of the three charged "as "trusted insiders" in the customs industry". Various articles have also described the two alleged offenders as "customs agents" and later as "customs brokers".
 
Official media release is available HERE
 
This coverage has led to great concern for Australian customs brokers and their clients. As customs brokers we pride ourselves on our integrity and professionalism and were justifiably horrified at these accusations and the consequential loss it caused to our professional reputations and client relationships.
 
Freight & Trade Alliance (FTA) met with the Australian Border Force (ABF) Commissioner yesterday raising this concern and has been in contact with the media advisors at the ABF, AFP and relevant news outlets.

Please note that the accused , Rachel Annette Cachia and Donovan Mark Rodrigues, are not and never have been licensed customs brokers in Australia. We have also confirmed that Mr Rodrigues is the Managing Director of an importing company in Melbourne.  That company does not have Australian Trusted Trader status.
 
Susan Danks - Head of Customs and Regulatory Compliance – FTA / APSA