The arrested men, both in their thirties, appeared in the Tauranga District Court on Wednesday afternoon (20 November). They face charges for the importation and possession of a class A controlled drug, which carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
The 34 kilograms of methamphetamine seized is worth up to NZ$17 million. Its seizure has prevented up to $42.1 million of potential social harm to New Zealand communities.
The vessel arrived in Tauranga from Fiji on 18 November and a subsequent search of the vessel located the methamphetamine hidden in bags in various locations on board the ship. Approximately FJ$16,000 found on board has also been seized by Customs.
Customs Investigations Manager Bruce Berry says this seizure is a reminder that Customs is active in seaports across the country.
“This vessel was identified as a posing a potential risk before it arrived in New Zealand, and the seizure is the result of some very good work by Customs frontline officers in Tauranga - one of the main shipping hubs into New Zealand.”
“Customs conducts targeting and risk assessment for all seaports and vessels, and we maintain a presence at the regional ports to defeat and deter smuggling activities.”
If you have suspicions about someone involved in drug smuggling, call either 0800 4 CUSTOMS (0800 428 786) in confidence, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 anonymously.