Media release: Customs operation stops $7 million worth of potential 'P' production

During the past two weeks the New Zealand Customs Service has carried out an intensive operation in Auckland targeting organised crime syndicates who import the Class C controlled drug pseudoephedrine.  

Customs made 26 interceptions of pseudoephedrine and in the process recovered over 46 kilograms of the drug – which if processed into ‘P’ would have a street value of at least $7 million.  

The interceptions were primarily in the form of the Chinese cold and flu medication ContacNT.  

Bruce Berry, Customs Manager Drug Investigations said that this was enough to manufacture at least seven kilograms of methamphetamine – saving an estimated $4 million dollars of potential harm to the community.  

“This operation involved officers and investigators from across the frontline units of Customs. It led to seven arrests with a variety of charges including importation and possession for supply of Class C controlled drugs,” said Mr Berry.  

“The number of interceptions being made at the border continues to rise and there is little doubt that all of the intercepted pseudoephedrine was going to be used to manufacture methamphetamine.  

“These importations are coordinated by organised crime syndicates that are in this for the money and have no thought for the impact these drugs have on our community as a whole.  Methamphetamine is destroying families and communities in all areas of New Zealand and the people who import it must be stopped.  

“One tactic used by these groups is to import through the mail and courier services and have the drugs delivered to private properties or individual rooms that are rented exclusively as a delivery point.  

“We encourage landlords who are subletting rooms or accommodation to ensure they seek sufficient identification and contact details to protect themselves from being drawn unnecessarily into our investigations.  

“This again reflects the need for the community to become aware of this issue and report suspicious activity to Customs.  They can do this by contacting 0800 4 CUSTOMS or feedback@customs.govt.nz.  All information will be treated in confidence.”

For more information please contact:
Bonnie Hutchins
Communications Advisor
04 462 0237
029 251 3167
bonnie.hutchins@customs.govt.nz

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