Customs Focuses Efforts On White Powder Psychoactives

Customs Focuses Efforts On White Powder Psychoactives

Customs is cracking down on importers of psychoactive substances through targeted efforts at the border.

Customs’ Manager Investigations, Mark Day, says there has been a concerning increase in the volumes of white powders being intercepted at the border.

“Customs is intercepting up to 15 suspected psychoactive substances each week, mostly through mail and air freight.

“The drugs can be difficult to detect in white powder form, and testing shows their structures are continually changing, so they may or may not be classified or listed under the Temporary Class Drug Notice,” he says.

Beyond the border, targeted activity is also being carried out against the importers - from opportunistic individuals to organised syndicates.

As part of the focussed operation, over 100 activities have been carried out in relation to 200 importations - four people have been arrested in the last few months and Customs officers have visited over 40 residences in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch in the last few days.

“Customs takes these importations seriously. Individuals who think they will get away with importing a small pack can expect a knock on their door from an officer expecting answers,” Mr Day says.

“At real danger are the consumers of these evolving substances who, either knowingly or unknowingly, could be taking untested and possibly deadly products being sold as ecstasy,” he says.

“No substance will be released by Customs until we are satisfied it is legal. This supports the new Psychoactive Substances Bill before parliament that is expected to come into force in early August.

“Importers also need to be aware that even if the substances are legal, misdeclaring these goods is also an offence and a range of penalties could apply, including prosecution,” Mr Day adds.

Customs continues to develop its intelligence picture of psychoactive substances and shares information with other law enforcement partners and overseas administrations, to support collaboration and to disrupt the supply chain.

ENDS

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