AFP warns travellers about new scam where ‘UN officials’ recruit drug mules

Alleged drug mules arriving in Melbourne from Asia, who claim to be victims of a smuggling scam, have been arrested by AFP

• Follow our Australia news live blog for latest updates
• Get our morning and afternoon news emails,free app or daily news podcast

Travellers are being warned about an emerging scam that involves transporting illicit drugs for criminals claiming to be United Nations officials.

The Australian federal police arrested two alleged drug mules in separate incidents in Melbourne, each of whom claimed to be a victim of the UN officer scam.

Sign up for Guardian Australia’s free morning and afternoon email newsletters for your daily news roundup