Canadian caught at New Zealand airport with 15 kg of meth, authorities say

Methamphetamine seized at the Auckland International Airport on Sunday, Nov. 30, is pictured. (New Zealand Customs Service)

Authorities in New Zealand say a Canadian national was arrested after attempting to smuggle a significant amount of methamphetamine into the country.

Officers found an estimated 15.17 kilograms of the drug in a 19-year-old’s luggage when he arrived at Auckland International Airport from Vancouver on Sunday, according to the New Zealand Customs Service.

The agency says the man was identified as a “risk passenger” through pre-arrival screening, and was questioned on arrival and further referred for a baggage check.

“Customs uses several tools including intelligence and passenger targeting through data and the use of sophisticated technology to identify high-risk passengers such as this individual,” acting customs manager of Auckland Airport, Ben Wells, said in a news release issued Monday.

“Further questioning and a search by front-line officers at the airport clearly indicated that something was not right.”

The methamphetamine was allegedly found in 15 vacuum-sealed packages hidden amongst clothing in his suitcase.

Authorities estimate the drugs are worth approximately $3.65 million CAD.

The accused appeared in Manukau District Court Monday and has been charged with importation of a “Class A controlled drug.”

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