Travellers’ cocaine concealment uncovered by Customs officers

The 22-year-old and 23-year-old foreign nationals arrived in Auckland on Tuesday 19 May, having travelled from Santiago, Chile. During passport processing, both were referred for a baggage check.
 
When the contents of their suitcases were removed, the empty suitcases were x-rayed and showed inconsistencies. On closer examination, each suitcase was found to contain a false bottom within the lining, in which there were vacuum-sealed bags containing a powder-like substance that tested positive for cocaine.
 
The total weight of suspected cocaine across both suitcases was approximately 6.3 kilograms – equivalent to an estimated 63,140 doses. If sold in retail amounts, this would be worth approximately NZ$2.2 million.
 
Customs’ Auckland Airport Manager, Paul Williams, says: “This interception highlights the skill, experience, and vigilance of our Customs officers, who work every day to protect New Zealand communities from the harm caused by illicit drugs.
 
“For those choosing to smuggle drugs — your time is always limited. You will be identified, and you will be held to account.
 
“Every interception like this represents significant community harm prevented, and reinforces that New Zealand’s border is actively defended.”

Customs encourages anyone with suspicions about drug smuggling to report this by calling 0800 WE PROTECT (0800 937 768) in confidence, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.