New Zealand authorities have reported the successful interception of 3.2 tonnes of cocaine found floating in the Pacific Ocean. Source: U.S. Coast Guard photo by Ricardo Castrodad
New Zealand authorities have reported the successful interception of 3.2 tonnes of cocaine found floating in the Pacific Ocean.
The drug haul, estimated to be worth approximately $500 million, was afloat in international waters when it was discovered by New Zealand authorities.
Under Operation Hydros, New Zealand Police, New Zealand Customs Service and the New Zealand Defence Force recovered the massive shipment that they believe was destined for the Australian market.
It was then transported via the Navy vessel HMNZS Manawanui to New Zealand where the 81 bales of product will be destroyed.
Police Commissioner Andrew Coster commented on the vast scale of the seizure, noting that it would come as a huge blow to the criminal syndicate behind the operation.
“There is no doubt this discovery lands a major financial blow right from the South American producers through to the distributors of this product,” said Commissioner Coster.
“This is one of the single biggest seizures of illegal drugs by authorities in this country. While this disrupts the syndicate’s operations, we remain vigilant given the lengths we know these groups will go to circumvent coming to law enforcement’s attention.”
New Zealand Customs Service Acting Comptroller Bill Perry remarked on the success of the recovery.
“Customs is pleased to have helped prevent such a large amount of cocaine causing harm in communities here in New Zealand, Australia and elsewhere in the wider Pacific region,” said Mr Perry.
“The sheer scale of this seizure is estimated to have taken more than half a billion dollars’ worth of cocaine out of circulation.
“It is a huge illustration of what lengths organised crime will go to with their global drug trafficking operations and shows that we are not exempt from major organised criminal drug smuggling efforts in this part of the world.”
Operation Hydros plans to continue their enquiry into the matter in collaboration with international partner agencies.
At this point in time, no arrests have been made.
