A California man apparently thought he could pull the wool over the eyes of customs officials, but his alleged attempt to smuggle methamphetamine in his luggage went ‘udderly’ wrong.
Raj Matharu, 31, of Northridge, was indicted today for allegedly trying to sneak more than a dozen clothing items – including a cow pajama onesie – caked in methamphetamine into Australia. One can only imagine the fashion statement he planned to make Down Under.
According to court documents, Matharu checked two suitcases, one pink and one gray (perhaps a nod to the bovine theme?), at LAX for his flight to Sydney. However, an X-ray screening revealed some “irregularities” in his luggage, prompting a closer inspection.
Lo and behold, officers found the suitcases filled with clothes that were stiff and covered in a white residue. A field test confirmed the substance was indeed methamphetamine.
It seems Matharu wasn’t moo-ving very stealthily, as the total weight of the meth-laden clothing was a hefty 71.5 pounds. That’s a lot of extra baggage!
“Drug dealers are continually inventing creative ways of smuggling dangerous narcotics in pursuit of illicit profit – as alleged in the facts of this case,” said United States Attorney Martin Estrada. “In the process, they are poisoning communities throughout the world. Law enforcement is committed to fighting drug trafficking, knowing that every seizure saves lives.”
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Officers intercepted Matharu on the jet bridge before he could make a clean getaway. He was arrested and is now facing charges of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
Perhaps he should have just packed a good book instead. This fashion faux pas could land him in a whole lot of trouble.
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