Canadian Woman Arrested for Smuggling Methamphetamine Hidden in Christmas Gifts at Auckland Airport

A Canadian woman was arrested at Auckland Airport on December 8, 2024, for attempting to smuggle over 20 pounds of methamphetamine hidden inside Christmas presents.

The drugs, worth up to NZ$3.8 million (USD $2.2 million), were discovered during a routine search by New Zealand customs officers.

The woman, whose identity has not been revealed, was traveling from Vancouver. Authorities have emphasized that organized crime groups frequently exploit the busy travel season to smuggle illicit goods.

This arrest is part of ongoing efforts to disrupt international drug trafficking, with recent operations also targeting drug shipments from North America.