Customs and the Royal New Zealand Navy successfully thwarted a transnational organised crime attempt to smuggle cocaine, seizing a significant seven-kilogram shipment.

The operation, conducted in April, uncovered a clandestine method involving attaching the illicit substance to the hull of a commercial vessel using a magnet.

The collaboration between Customs maritime and Royal New Zealand Navy dive and explosives experts was prompted by intelligence received by Customs, indicating a suspicious attachment to the stern of a ship destined for New Zealand.

Vigilantly monitoring the situation, Customs, in conjunction with the ship's captain and agents, observed and reported any irregular activities as the vessel approached New Zealand's coast.

Upon agreement between Customs, the Navy, and the shipping line, a strategic interception plan was devised, culminating in the vessel's interception approximately 50 nautical miles off the coast of New Zealand, executed by Customs' patrol vessel Hawk V.

The vessel was then escorted to a secure location outside Auckland for further investigation.

Utilising cutting-edge technology including uncrewed surface vessels and aerial drones, Navy ordnance experts and divers meticulously inspected the attached box.

Subsequently, the box, confirmed to contain an electromagnet securing it to the ship's hull, revealed the concealed seven kilograms of cocaine, valued at up to NZ$3.15 million.

Robert Smith, Customs Manager Maritime, underscored the significance of the collaborative operation, highlighting the effectiveness of leveraging technological advancements in apprehending such criminal activities.

Smith emphasised Customs' close partnership with the Navy and the pivotal role of industry partners in bolstering border security.

Commodore Garin Golding, Maritime Component Commander of the Royal New Zealand Navy, hailed the operation as a milestone in leveraging uncrewed systems technology.

The seamless coordination, facilitated remotely from Devonport's control room, exemplified the synergy between Customs, Police, and the Navy in combating narcotics smuggling.

The success of this joint operation serves as a testament to the efficacy of inter-agency collaboration and the vigilance maintained to safeguard New Zealand's borders.

Authorities urge individuals with information regarding smuggling activities to report confidentially to Customs' hotline or contact Crimestoppers anonymously.

For those with concerns about potential smuggling activity, Customs provides a 24-hour confidential hotline at 0800 WE PROTECT (0800 937 768), while Crimestoppers can be reached anonymously at 0800 555 111.