In a major crackdown on organised crime, authorities have arrested 18 people—including nine baggage handlers and another airport staff member—for allegedly facilitating the smuggling of methamphetamine and cocaine through Auckland Airport.
The operation, codenamed Operation Matata, culminated in raids across nearly two dozen Auckland properties on Wednesday, with police and Customs officers seizing approximately 64 kilograms of methamphetamine and 3.4 kilograms of cocaine, with an estimated street value of $24 million.
The massive operation resulted in the arrests of 17 men (aged 20–42) and a 19-year-old woman, all facing serious drug charges, including importing and supplying methamphetamine and cocaine
The investigation began on 20 March 2025, when a 25kg methamphetamine haul was discovered in a vehicle outside an East Tamaki address, leading to the arrest of a key suspect.
Detective Inspector Tom Gollan of the National Organised Crime Group revealed that further inquiries uncovered a wider criminal network using insider access at Auckland Airport to bypass security checks.
“Police will allege in court that this group imported controlled drugs through the airport on six occasions,” Gollan said. “The involvement of airport staff, particularly baggage handlers, was critical to their operation.”
All suspects faced charges related to drug importation and organised crime and were scheduled to appear in the Manukau District Court on Wednesday and Thursday.
Customs officials confirmed the seizures were part of a prolonged surveillance operation, with airport workers allegedly assisting in moving drugs undetected through secure areas.
“This operation has severely disrupted a major supply chain feeding meth and cocaine into our communities,” said a Customs spokesperson. “The arrests of airport employees highlight the lengths criminal groups will go to infiltrate critical infrastructure.”
Authorities have not ruled out further arrests as forensic examinations and financial investigations continue. Police are also reviewing security protocols at Auckland Airport to prevent future exploitation.
“This should serve as a warning to anyone involved in drug trafficking,” Detective Inspector Gollan said. “We are watching, and we will hold you accountable.”
The case marks one of the largest drug busts linked to airport insider activity in New Zealand’s history.
