New Zealand Customs authorities have raised concerns over a growing number of young people being recruited as drug couriers, following the arrest of 11 New Zealanders at the border this year.
According to a report by Stuff, Customs Minister Casey Costello issued the warning on Thursday after six Auckland residents were charged with allegedly smuggling methamphetamine into New Zealand from Malaysia. The latest arrests have brought the total number of young New Zealanders accused of attempting to courier drugs through airports in 2026 to 11. In addition, five foreign travellers have also been arrested and charged in connection with similar offences.
Authorities believe organised criminal networks are increasingly using social media platforms to target young people, often luring them with promises of free overseas trips or opportunities to earn easy money.
“Our young people are being targeted to do things which have devastating consequences," Costello said, Stuff has quoted.
She warned that criminal organisations view drug couriers as disposable tools used to maximise profits, with little regard for their well-being or future.
“Criminal groups only want to boost their profits; they do not care what happens to drug mules. As far as the gangs and cartels are concerned, they are expendable,” as quoted by Stuff.
Costello stressed that individuals caught transporting illegal drugs face serious legal consequences, including lengthy prison sentences that can separate them from family and significantly impact future employment and travel opportunities.
She also highlighted the risks faced by those caught overseas, noting that some countries impose far harsher penalties for drug-related crimes.
“A number of Southeast Asian countries retain the death penalty for drug crimes,” she said, according to Stuff.
The minister urged parents, relatives and friends to remain alert to suspicious offers and intervene if they suspect criminal groups are targeting someone.
"My simple message is, if you’re approached, don’t do it," she said, as quoted by Stuff.
Officials continue to encourage young people to reject offers that appear too good to be true and to report any suspicious approaches to authorities.