Sixteen people have been arrested over their alleged involvement in one of the country's largest drug smuggling syndicates, recruiting Kiwis as young as 19 years old through social media.
Customs alleged 252kg of methamphetamine had been transported on return trips to Malaysia between October 2025 and January 2026.
The drugs were allegedly mainly carried in passenger luggage.
Customs said the three-month investigation, assisted by police, uncovered the syndicate who had been recruiting young New Zealanders through social media.
Search warrants were executed yesterday in Rotorua, Hamilton and Auckland, leading to the arrest of 11 people aged between 19 and 31.
Customs said those arrested are alleged to be linked to the syndicate as couriers, recruiters, and organisers.
Five arrests earlier in the year as part of the same operation brought the total number to 16, it said.
Customs investigations manager Dominic Adams said the arrests had effectively dismantled a significant drug smuggling syndicate, but there would be others like it, and New Zealanders needed to be aware of the dangers and consequences.
“This is a tactic we know is used by organised criminal groups worldwide. They will recruit suitcase couriers through social media to do the legwork for them, offering money in exchange for travelling overseas and bringing back drugs in their luggage.”
Adams said it had been ruining young people’s lives in many countries, and New Zealand was “unfortunately not immune”.
“We want young New Zealanders to be aware of the consequences. Customs urges you not to sacrifice future freedoms for the promise of fast money and free travel. Drug couriers will face a long time in prison, as well as jeopardise future employment opportunities and international travel – it is not worth the risk.”
Suspicions about drug smuggling could be reported by calling 0800 937 768, or anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
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