A 60-year-old man has been arrested at Auckland International Airport after 2kg of methamphetamine or 'P' was found in his luggage. It has a street value of around NZ$2million.
The Northland man was returning from a month-long trip to South Africa on Sunday night and, through intelligence-sharing with Australia's Department of Immigration and Border Protection and Australian Crime Commission, was intercepted by New Zealand Customs.
An x-ray revealed the meth hidden in the lining of his trolley bag.
Customs investigations manager Maurice O'Brien says Customs works closely with local and international enforcement partners.
Together, they share information that targets criminals trying to smuggle methamphetamine across borders through drug couriers.
"We have several mechanisms in place to identify high-risk passengers, and this case is another good example of our success in protecting each other's borders and communities."
Australian Crime Commission state manager for Victoria, Jason Halls, said serious and organised crime is global in nature and growing in sophistication.
"This seizure highlights the importance of a transnational approach when it comes to combating illicit drugs," Mr Halls said.
The man appeared in the Manukau District Court yesterday afternoon for importing a class A controlled drug, and faces a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
Newshub.
