Police have busted an international drug syndicate operating in Auckland and netted an estimated $2.4 million worth of methamphetamine.
Two Iranian nationals, men aged 31 and 42, face a variety of drug-related charges including importing methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine for supply, supplying methamphetamine, conspiracy to import methamphetamine and participation in an organised criminal group.
A 34-year-old New Zealander with links to the King Cobras gang has been a charged with possession of methamphetamine for supply.
It was alleged the drugs were imported by human couriers employed by the syndicate, Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Bruce Howard said.
One of the "drug mules" was intercepted with the 2.4 kg package by Customs at Auckland International Airport.
The haul had an estimated street value of $2,380,000.
Police also searched two central Auckland addresses early this morning and seized $16,000 in cash, a stun gun, a 2007 Range Rover Sport, and a 2004 BMW car.
The three men, allegedly the ringleaders of the syndicate, were arrested after a two-month joint operation by the Auckland metro drug squad and Customs known as Operation Crow.
Mr Howard said the accused allegedly ran a sophisticated importation operation responsible for putting large quantities of P on the streets.
"It's certainly a substantial amount of methamphetamine. It's not in the small boys play area, that's for sure. Hopefully this result might have some effect."
Mr Howard said Iran was a significant source country for methamphetamine.
Two of the men - the New Zealander and one of the Iranians - were arrested two days ago and will appear again in Auckland District Court tomorrow, while the third was arrested this morning and was due to have his first appearance this afternoon.
