Photo: Biosecurity New ZealandA Christchurch woman has been fined after Biosecurity New Zealand border staff discovered hundreds of seeds concealed in the lining of her suitcase. The seeds were discovered by staff trained to identify differences in luggage that are generally not visible but could pose a biosecurity risk. Chitra Paul, 31, smuggled 920 seeds and has pleaded guilty to one charge under the Biosecurity Act 1993. Ministry for Primary Industries regional manager compliance investigations Gerald Anderson said risk goods like seeds need to be declared to manage biosecurity risk. Bean seeds are prohibited unless they have been treated, or additional official declarations are supplied, before entry as they have the potential to harbour high risk biosecurity pests.

Source: Otago Daily Times October 05, 2020 00:33 UTC