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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