He then attempted to flee, allegedly punching a Customs officer in the process.
A British man was arrested after 16.8kg of meth was found in his luggage, with two Customs officers allegedly punched while he attempted to escape. Photo / Customs
A second officer was allegedly punched while the man was being restrained.
Both officers received medical treatment for minor injuries, and the man was detained with support from police and Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) officers.
He is due to appear in the Manukau District Court on September 22, being charged with importing a Class A-controlled drug and assaulting Customs officers acting in the execution of their duties.
Customs’ assistant comptroller of air operations Craig Chitty said the incident and resulting seizure – which had prevented an estimated $17.6m in social and economic harm – exemplified the types of dangers that frontline officers can face.
“Officers are increasingly encountering people linked to transnational, serious and organised crime, and while our officers are trained to de-escalate such situations, and receive officer safety tactics training, things can escalate quickly and without warning.
A British man was arrested after 16.8kg of meth was found in his luggage, with two Customs officers allegedly punched while he attempted to escape. Photo / Customs
“As criminal groups continue to evolve their methods, so too do the risks faced by our frontline officers.
“Incidents like this reinforce the need for Customs to maintain the necessary capabilities, training, and powers to effectively respond to such threats.”
Chitty said such assaults on Customs officers were “unacceptable”, and thanked partner agencies for their quick action following the sudden escalation.
“Our staff are carrying out an important public service, and everyone has the right to go home safely at the end of their shift.”
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