US man arrested at Los Angeles airport for smuggling meth soaked in over 30 kilograms of clothing

A California man was arrested at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) on Tuesday for allegedly trying to smuggle methamphetamine to Sydney, Australia. Raj Matharu, 39, was about to board a United Airlines flight when security officers discovered the drugs, as reported by CNN.

Law enforcement officers intercepted Matharu at the gate. He admitted the suitcases were his. He was arrested and charged with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

The drug was hidden in two suitcases, one pink and one grey, that Matharu checked in. During a routine X-ray screening, officers noticed irregularities in the luggage. Upon further inspection, they found clothing, including a cow onesie, that appeared stiff and coated in a white powder. Over 70 pounds of clothing were coated in meth. Tests confirmed the powder was methamphetamine. Authorities recovered over one kilogram of the drug.

“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 US Attorney Martin Estrada.

Court records indicate the clothing was likely soaked in methamphetamine and left to dry, a common smuggling tactic. Matharu was released on a $10,000 bond and has to appear for a court hearing on Monday.