The man accused of smuggling an estimated 20kg of methamphetamine into the country yesterday allegedly hid the drug in vacuum-sealed green tea bags.
The 36-year-old man arrived yesterday from Denpasar, Bali and has has been charged with importing a class A controlled drug.
Today, Customs confirmed the man was a foreign national.
The incident is the third intercept at the airport in under a week.
The alleged methamphetamine found in the life coach's luggage. Photo / Supplied
A Customs spokesperson said the passenger was identified for a baggage search during processing.
“An examination of tea packets inside the bag revealed a white crystalline substance that tested positive for methamphetamine.
“This intercept has prevented up to NZ$21 million in social harm and cost to New Zealand. If sold in retail amounts, this amount of methamphetamine would be worth around NZ$6 million.”
An airport spokesperson said Auckland Airport fully supported the work of police and Customs NZ to detect and prevent international drug trafficking.
“The collective vigilance of all stakeholders in the airport ecosystem plays a critical role in disrupting illicit activities at the New Zealand end of the global drug supply,” the spokesperson said.
This arrest comes just days after a real estate broker was accused of smuggling drugs into NZ.
The 25-year-old woman was arrested at Auckland Airport on Sunday and charged with importing 4kg cocaine.
Customs said the cocaine was concealed in two suitcases, including this one. Photo / Supplied
Customs said she arrived on a flight from Santiago, Chile, and was referred for a baggage search during processing.
She had allegedly tried concealing cocaine in two suitcases.
“After a detailed examination of the suitcases, officers found the drugs concealed inside the panelling,” a Customs spokesperson said.
Katie Harris is an Auckland-based journalist who covers issues including sexual assault, workplace misconduct, media, crime and justice. She joined theHeraldin 2020.
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