Prosecutors have indicted Raj Matharu, a Los Angeles man, for attempting to smuggle over 30 pounds of methamphetamine onto an Australia-bound flight out of LAX by embedding the drugs into clothing. The drugs had been hidden in the fabric of the clothing to avoid detection. Matharu faces a federal charge of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada praised the airport screening officers for catching the unusual contraband-laced wardrobe. Matharu was arrested when screening personnel noticed irregularities in his luggage with an X-ray scanner. The meth-caked clothes included various items like shirts, sweaters, socks, and boxers, as well as a set of cow-themed onesie pajamas. Matharu was intercepted by officers as he tried to board his flight, and is now out on a $10,000 bond pending his arraignment hearing. If convicted, he could face a prison sentence ranging from 10 years to life. Prosecutors emphasized the commitment of law enforcement to fight drug trafficking, as drug dealers continuously come up with creative ways to smuggle dangerous narcotics for profit, ultimately harming communities.
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Man accused of attempting to transport meth-covered clothing on LAX flight
