Three Israeli men have been jailed for trying to smuggle eight kilograms worth of ecstasy through Auckland Airport in false-bottom suitcases earlier this year.
The drugs were found in the false bottoms of three suitcases. Photo: Supplied / NZ Customs
Customs says the drugs had a street value of up to $3.6 million.
The men were each sentenced in the Manukau District Court today to eight years and three months in prison.
Victor Borisenko, Vladislav Pischako, and Guy Shalom - all aged in their mid-twenties - arrived at Auckland Airport from Singapore on 3 January.
X-rays revealed packs of MDMA crystals hidden under wooden false bottoms of their three suitcases.
Three people have been arrested for trying to smuggle up to $5m of MDMA through Auckland Airport. Photo: Supplied / NZ Customs
Customs spokesperson Peter Lewis said while the summer season was always a busy time at international airports, this did not mean criminals could hide in the crowds.
"We wear two hats and are just as focused on catching criminals.
"The methods Customs uses, both at the frontline and behind the scenes, and our partnerships with border agencies - such as the Ministry for Primary Industries in this case - means there is every chance they will get caught."
