Customs officers at Auckland International Airport seized approximately 60.3 kilograms of methamphetamine from unaccompanied bags overnight.

The two duffle bags, which arrived on a flight from Malaysia, were identified by Customs officers undertaking routine screening of incoming passengers and baggage. Customs officers discovered vacuum-sealed packages inside, which tested positive for methamphetamine. The bags contained approximately 30 kilograms and 30.3 kilograms of the drug, respectively.

This quantity of methamphetamine has an estimated street value of NZ$22.6 million and could have caused around NZ$63.26 million in potential harm and cost to New Zealand.

Customs Auckland Airport Manager, Paul Williams, credited the intercept to the eagle-eyed and highly skilled Customs officers who once again prevented harmful drugs from entering the community.

“It’s been a demanding year for Customs officers at Auckland International Airport, with organised criminal groups attempting to move increasingly large volumes of illicit drugs through the border.

“While we work hard to support law-abiding travellers during the school holiday travel period, our officers remain alert to tactics such as drug couriers and unaccompanied luggage.

“This seizure is a clear result of strong intelligence, trusted partnerships, and frontline vigilance, and it sends a strong message to those seeking to exploit our border.”

Everyone has a role to play in protecting New Zealand’s border and communities from illicit drugs. If you notice any suspicious activity while travelling or working at airports, report it to a Customs officer or call 0800 WE PROTECT (0800 937 768) in confidence, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Home Page | Auckland | Previous Story | Next Story

Copyright (c) Scoop Media