New Zealanders getting caught as drug-smuggling "mules"

Police are concerned at the increasing numbers of people, including New Zealanders, becoming involved in drug trafficking as "mules" that carry drugs through the border and are warning people to report any approaches they may get from anyone asking them to carry drugs.

Assistant Commissioner Malcolm Burgess said the trend is of concern as some people think they can earn easy money by helping organised crime groups to bring illegal drugs into New Zealand or across borders of other countries.

"The risks these people take are huge. We and our partner agencies such as Customs and Immigration are cracking down on organised crime. We are finding more and more people are getting caught up in it all for a bit of extra cash or some other benefit," said Mr Burgess.

Recently, two New Zealand citizens were arrested in Japan after allegedly attempting to smuggle methamphetamine into Tokyo’s Narita International Airport. The two, a 26 year old male and 25 year old female, had travelled to Tokyo on the 17th of May on a Thai airways flight from Bangkok, Thailand. The methamphetamine, believed to total between 1-2 kilograms, was found concealed in their suitcase.

New Zealander Sharon Armstrong was arrested in Buenos Aires with 5kgs of cocaine hidden in her luggage while on her way to London.

These apprehensions come only four months after a New Zealand passport holder died in Thailand after attempting to smuggle methamphetamine internally out of Bangkok International Airport. The 40 year old man died in a Bangkok hospital in January after having swallowed packages of methamphetamine, which are believed to have burst and caused his death.

There are few instances where the traveller may be an unwitting "mule". Most knowingly enter into an arrangement to carry drugs, whether for payment, cancellation of a debt or some other consideration.

"The temptation for some people to take the risk is often out-weighed by the cash being offered or some other inducement. But the consequences, should they get caught, are life-ruining and inevitably end up with a long jail sentence or potentially harsher penalties if arrested in some overseas countries."

Mr Burgess advises anyone who is approached by a group or an individual with a tempting offer to carry drugs across the border to contact Customs, Police or Crimestoppers - 0800 555111.

"This will help us to track down criminals who want to profit from the suffering of those who get caught up in drugs and become a cost to their families, friends and the community."