New Zealand drug smuggling ring linked to Asian crime gang: police

WELLINGTON, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- New Zealand law enforcement agencies have seized methamphetamine valued at 17 million NZ dollars (12.13 million U.S. dollars) after smashing an alleged drug smuggling ring linked to an Asian criminal gang. Police and Customs said in statement Wednesday they had seized 17 kilograms of the drug along with jewelry worth 150,000 NZ dollars (107,910 U.S. dollars) and 200,000 NZ dollars (143,880 U.S. dollars) in cash after a seven-month joint investigation. Three people had been arrested and charged with importing methamphetamine, supplying the drug and money laundering. The importation was allegedly conducted by a member of the Thailand Chapter of the U.S.-based Bandido motorcycle gang. Three men aged 54, 31 and 28 had appeared in Auckland's Manukau District Court and would next appear in October. Police said they could not rule out the possibility of further charges as the investigation continued. The drugs recovered were destined for the New Zealand market, Detective Senior Sergeant Albie Alexander, of the Police Organised Crime Unit, said in the statement. "The seizure of such a substantial amount sends a clear picture that police will continue to work with our partner agencies to disrupt the supply chain and reduce the harm caused by this drug," said Alexander.