Customs has arrested a 66-year-old man in Auckland for allegedly trying to smuggle 10 kilograms of illegal drugs known as kamini pills into New Zealand from India.
The man was taken into custody today and is due to appear in the Manukau District Court this afternoon (16 September 2025).
According to Customs, the arrest follows a two-month investigation. Officers carried out search warrants at a business and a residential address in Auckland after the pills were discovered hidden in snack packets inside a shipping container from India. The pills were later tested by the New Zealand Institute for Public Health and Forensic Science, which confirmed they contained class B and C controlled drugs.
Kamini is a traditional Indian herbal medicine. In New Zealand, its import, supply, or possession without a prescription is banned because it contains opioids and can lead to dependency.
Chief Customs Officer for Fraud and Prohibition, Nigel Barnes, said this was an intelligence-led operation that tracked the supply chain from the border to local distribution.
“The evidence gathered suggests a well-organised illicit operation. Kamini is a concern because of the risk of harm and dependency. Customs is determined to stop such products from reaching our communities,” Mr Barnes said.
He also reminded the public, including Indian communities in New Zealand, that possessing or importing kamini without a prescription is illegal and dangerous for health.
Customs has encouraged anyone with concerns about smuggling of kamini to contact them confidentially on 0800 WE PROTECT (0800 937 768) or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Source: New Zealand Customs Service (16 September 2025 Official Release)
