The woman arrived on a flight from Malaysia on 29 August 2026 and was referred to Customs for a baggage search.
During an examination of her checked-in luggage, Customs officers noticed signs of tampering and a bulge in the lining. An X-ray identified inconsistencies, and officers drilled into the suitcase. They found a white crystalline substance that tested positive for etomidate, a Class C controlled drug.
Chief Customs Officer, Compliance and Enforcement, Ben Wells says the seizure shows Customs officers are alert to all drug threats at the border.
“Customs is focused on detecting and disrupting attempts to bring drugs into New Zealand, regardless of how they are concealed. Interceptions like this help prevent potentially dangerous substances from reaching the community and causing harm.
“Etomidate is a Class C controlled drug and so cannot be lawfully imported without an import licence from the Ministry of Health. Illicit use can have serious and potentially life-threatening consequences.”
Anyone with information about possible drug smuggling can contact Customs confidentially on 0800 WE PROTECT (0800 937 768) or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
