it generally IS too good to be true ~ ~ Sooz

Couple’s vacation prize to Canada makes them unwitting drug mules
By Agence France-Presse
Friday, October 25, 2013 7:07 EDT

It seemed like a dream come true — a free vacation to Canada complete with new luggage — until the Australian couple involved realized they had unwittingly become drug mules.

Australian Federal Police on Friday said the pair, a 72-year-old man and 64-year-old woman, told Customs officials they had some concerns about their bags when they returned to Perth International Airport on October 13.

On examination, some 7.7 pounds of methamphetamine was found stashed within the lining of each bag, which police reportedly believe were swapped while in Canada.

“The Australian Federal Police will allege the couple were victims of an elaborate scam and were unwitting participants in the drug importation,” police said in a statement.

Authorities said the scam by a bogus Canada-based tour company calling itself “AusCan Tours” apparently targeted older people, offering two tickets to Canada, seven nights’ accommodation and new luggage as a prize.

“The organizers of this scam went to great lengths to provide a facade of legitimacy,” Perth airport police commander David Bachi said. “Thankfully the travelers contacted Customs and didn’t dismiss their concerns, allowing us to make the arrest.”

http://www.rawstory.com/rs/2013/10/25/couples-vacation-prize-to-canada-makes-them-unwitting-drug-mules/