Customs have seized more than 60kg of methamphetamine from unaccompanied bags at Auckland International Airport overnight.
The two duffel bags, which arrived on a flight from Malaysia, were identified by Customs during routine screening of incoming passengers and baggage.
Vacuum-sealed packages were discovered inside and the contents tested positive for methamphetamine.
The bags contained 30kg and 30.3kg respectively, with an estimated street value of $22.6 million. Officials estimated the quantity of meth could have caused around $63.26 million in social harm.
Customs Auckland Airport manager Paul Williams said the intercept was made by “eagle-eyed and highly skilled” staff who once again prevented harmful drugs from entering the country.
“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.”
He said officers remained 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.”
