A foreign national has been sentenced to six and a half years in prison after attempting to smuggle 2kg of cocaine through Auckland International Airport, concealed in the lining of two suitcases, last year.
The 29-year-old arrived at the airport from Santiago, Chile, on July 27, 2024.
Customs officers noticed inconsistencies during an x-ray of the man’s luggage, leading to the discovery of approximately 2kg of cocaine – worth approximately $900,000 – concealed within the lining of both cases, Customs New Zealand said on social media.
The passenger appeared in the Manukau District Court on May 23, 2025, where he was convicted of importing the Class A controlled drug.
“What this sentencing shows that it doesn’t matter if you attempt to bring in small or large quantities of drugs into New Zealand. When you are caught, you will get a hefty punishment. It’s just not worth it,” chief Customs officer compliance and enforcement, Ben Wells, said.
Anyone with suspicions about possible drug smuggling could contact Customs confidentially on 0800 WE PROTECT (0800 937 768) or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
