A Canadian woman has been detained at Auckland Airport after authorities uncovered 10.2 kilograms of methamphetamine concealed as Christmas presents in her luggage.
New Zealand Customs, following a Facebook announcement, revealed that the woman arrived on a flight from Vancouver. Her carry-on baggage contained methamphetamine worth approximately $2.2 million. The discovery was made by customs officers who remain vigilant against potential drug traffickers, especially during the busy holiday travel season.
Paul Williams, Auckland Airport’s customs manager, emphasized that despite the increased travel rush, the Customs team is fully alert to the activities of transnational criminal organizations. “This is a classic attempt by transnational organized criminal groups at trying to exploit the busy travel season,” Williams stated. His words highlight the ongoing challenges faced by customs officials as they strive to intercept illicit substances and prevent their distribution.
The drugs, wrapped in festive red paper adorned with snowflakes, were concealed in a red duffel bag. This attempt to disguise illegal substances as harmless gifts represents a strategic but ultimately unsuccessful effort by smugglers to circumvent law enforcement.
Williams commented further on this tactic, noting that organized crime groups often underestimate the customs enforcement capabilities. “These criminal groups make the mistake of thinking Customs won’t chase smaller targets, but we know that drugs sent from North America are an increasing risk and we are prepared,” he added.
This incident is not isolated. Last year, New Zealand intercepted 713 kilograms of meth hidden within containers of Canadian maple syrup—a seizure valued at $150 million, marking the nation’s largest to date. This operation, which involved cooperation with agencies from New Zealand, Australia, and Canada, resulted in the arrest of six individuals.
New Zealand Police Commissioner Andrew Coster has underlined the importance of international collaboration in tackling the global drug trade and organized crime. Coster stated, “The international drug trade and organized crime groups are creating havoc and harm in communities around the globe, and our best opportunity to disrupt, intercept, and keep our communities safe is to work collaboratively with other agencies and nations.”
The arrest at Auckland Airport serves as a reminder of the constant vigilance required to combat the global drug trade. New Zealand Customs’ proactive measures reinforce their commitment to keeping communities safe from the harms of illicit drugs.
Source: Wsvn
