130 kgs of cocaine seized by Customs in Tauranga

Customs officers have seized an estimated 130 kilograms of cocaine, worth up to NZ$50.44 million, from a shipping container at the Port of Tauranga.

On Monday 26 May, Customs officers risk-assessed a shipping container loaded with machinery which had arrived from Italy, via Panama, as suspicious.

X-rays and a physical examination by Customs officers led to the discovery of 130 bricks of cocaine, each weighing up to one kilogram, found within duffel bags at the front of the container.

The bricks of cocaine each had a picture of a lion on the outside and were branded ‘GGG’.

Customs Manager Maritime Robert Smith said Customs is committed to protecting our communities from the harm of drugs and ensuring that legitimate trade can flow unimpeded.

“Ongoing pressure from Customs is making it harder for transnational and serious organised crime (TSOC) groups to operate across the country. Things are only going to get tougher for them with new investments in our technology and capability.

“This seizure is a result of our intelligence processes, leading-edge technology and officer know-how, which enables Customs to keep our borders secure and prevent TSOC groups profiting from communities.

Mr Smith acknowledged the value of partnerships with port authorities, Police, and traders.

“These relationships equip us to respond collaboratively, quickly and effectively to the threat of drug smuggling. The impact to trade and importers’ business by organised crime should not be underestimated. These activities not only impact the speed and costs of imports but damage New Zealand’s reputation as a trading nation.

“Cooperation across government and industry is strengthening our border and we will continue to evolve and adapt to target this threat,” Mr Smith said.

Earlier this month, Customs seized an estimated 157 kilograms of cocaine, worth up to NZ$60.9 million, in three separate containers at the Port of Tauranga.

Customs urges the public and those working in the maritime environment to remain vigilant at all times. Suspicions about drug smuggling can be reported by calling 0800 WE PROTECT (0800 937 768) in confidence, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.