Customs uncover 100kg cocaine worth $35m hidden in Tauranga container

New Zealand Customs has intercepted a significant drug shipment, seizing approximately 100 kilograms of cocaine with an estimated street value of $35 million. The illicit substance was discovered concealed within a container of legitimate cargo at the Port of Tauranga. Authorities have indicated that this seizure is part of a sophisticated smuggling operation known as a "rip-on, rip-off" method, where criminals attempt to steal drugs already in transit.

This large seizure highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat international drug trafficking and the evolving tactics employed by criminal organizations.