Wellington: More than 3 tonnes of cocaine worth an estimated $NZ500 million ($453 million) have been seized in the Pacific Ocean as part of a New Zealand Police, Customs and Defence Force operation. NZ Police Commissioner Andrew Coster said the seizure was one of the biggest hauls of illegal drugs by authorities in New Zealand history. NZ Customs say the cocaine seized as part of Operation Hydros has a street value of more than half a billion dollars. Coster said the size of the shipment, found afloat, suggested it was likely destined for Australia. The amount would supply New Zealand for 30 years and Australia for one year, he said without elaborating.

Source: Stuff February 08, 2023 18:28 UTC