Surveillance officers at a New Zealand airport seized $2 million worth of methamphetamine wrapped as Christmas gifts, which a Canadian woman had attempted to hide.
According to a release from the New Zealand Customs Service, the 29-year-old woman arrived at Auckland International Airport in New Zealand on December 8 after flying from Vancouver with illegal drugs in her carry-on bag.
Upon landing, officers questioned the woman and searched her carry-on duffel bag, where they found over 22 pounds of methamphetamine hidden beneath brightly wrapped snowflake wrapping paper.
Authorities say the Canadian citizen had more than US$2 million worth of illegal drugs in his bag.
Auckland Airport manager Paul Williams called the incident a “classic attempt by international organized criminal groups” to take advantage of the busy travel season.
“But a busy airport doesn’t mean Customs isn’t focusing on someone who may pose a drug threat,” Williams said in a statement. “The airport teams are made up of vigilant officers who are focused on catching those trying to cause harm to New Zealanders.”
The woman has appeared in District Court charged with importation and possession with intent to supply a Class A controlled drug, officers said.
“More collaborative work is being done with our Canadian partners to disrupt drug importation, including criminal gangs and traveler flows,” Williams told Fox News Digital in an email. “As this is part of an ongoing investigation, Customs will not be releasing further information for operational reasons.”
Officials said the woman has been taken into custody.
