3 Mar 2016

New Zealander arrested in Taiwan on drug-related charges

7:22 pm on 3 March 2016

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says a New Zealander has been arrested in Taiwan on drug-related charges.

The Taiwanese news channel, Focus Taiwan is reporting the man was held at the international airport in Taipei on Monday, after the authorities said he tried to smuggle heroin into the country.

It says the heroin was found hidden between two layers of a backpack.

In Taiwan, anyone caught manufacturing, transporting or selling category one narcotics, including heroin, could face life imprisonment or the death penalty.

A spokesperson for MFAT says consular assistance is being provided.