Six people have been charged with importing methamphetamine after Customs executed search warrants across Auckland on 24 June.
The accused, aged 22 to 25, allegedly smuggled an estimated 93kg of methamphetamine concealed inside suitcases on flights returning from Malaysia. All six appeared in the Manukau District Court.
The arrests form part of Operation Trammel, a Customs investigation that has resulted in 22 arrests and 31 searches since January.
Customs Investigations Manager Dominic Adams said criminal syndicates are targeting young New Zealanders through social media to recruit them as drug couriers. "Criminal groups are using social media to entice our young people into high-risk illegal activities, with the promise of overseas travel, cash and an Insta-worthy lifestyle," Adams said.
"But be warned about offers that are too good to be true – they come with strings attached and lifetime consequences."