Woman arrested for attempting to smuggle 22 pounds of meth wrapped as Christmas gifts in carry-on bag

Observant officers at a New Zealand airport made a shocking discovery recently when they unwrapped Christmas presents containing $2 million worth of methamphetamine that a Canadian woman attempted to smuggle into the country.

The 29-year-old woman arrived at Auckland International Airport from Vancouver on December 8 with the illicit drugs hidden in her carry-on bag, according to a release from the New Zealand Customs Service. Upon landing, officers questioned the woman and found over 22 pounds of methamphetamine concealed beneath brightly wrapped snowflake wrapping paper.

Officials estimate that the woman’s bag contained the equivalent of more than $2 million US dollars worth of the illicit drug. Auckland Airport Manager Paul Williams called the incident a “classic attempt by transnational organized criminal groups” to exploit the busy travel season.

However, Williams emphasized that despite the busy airport, Customs officers remain vigilant in catching those attempting to bring harm to New Zealand. The woman has since appeared in district court on charges of drug importation and possession for supply of a Class A controlled substance.

Customs officials are working closely with Canadian authorities to disrupt criminal gangs and drug importation through the passenger stream. As the investigation is ongoing, further information is not being released for operational reasons.

The woman has been taken into custody and will face legal consequences for her attempted smuggling of methamphetamine disguised as Christmas presents. This incident serves as a reminder of the constant vigilance needed to combat the illegal drug trade and protect communities from the harmful effects of narcotics.