The Ministry of Customs have intercepted over $6 million tala worth of methamphetamine at Samoa’s borders in two separate targeted operations in the past two days.
On Friday 12 December, a 32-year-old male of Vaitele and Nuu who arrived at the Regional Airport at Faleolo on the last flight from American Samoa, was found with five packets containing 41 grams of meth hidden in his underwear.
5 packets hidden in the 32-year-olds underwear. Photos: Ministry of Customs.
The Ministry of Customs says the successful interception of the five concealed packages “demonstrates the determination of criminals to smuggle illicit drugs into Samoa through any concealment method including hiding it in their private areas.”
Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Customs and Border Control says Police assisted in the search due to suspect’s reluctance to cooperate.
“The body search was carried out pursuant to the legal provisions under the Customs Act.”
“He has been charged with Possession of Narcotics (Methamphetamine) and Importation of Prohibited Goods.
Photo Credit: Ministry of Customs and Revenue
A day later on Saturday 13 December 6.032 kilos of meth was discovered by Border Control Officers concealed inside a box of frozen chicken at the Matautu Wharf.
The shipment originated from American Samoa and the Ministry says it was also “a targeted operation for inspection based on intelligence.”
Officers discovered two vacuum packed packages of methamphetamine concealed inside the frozen box of chicken.
“The concealment method demonstrates the continued attempts by criminals to smuggle illicit drugs into Samoa through ordinary goods.”
Photo Credit: Ministry of Customs and Revenue
A 59-year-old male of To’omatagi has been charged with Possession of Narcotics (Methamphetamine) and Importation of Prohibited Goods.
A conviction for possession of Class A narcotics (Methamphetamine) carries a penalty of Life Imprisonment.
These two cases mark the seventh methamphetamine interception at Samoa’s borders this year since the historic 9.4 kilograms of meth intercepted in January, remind the authorities.
The Chief Executive Officer of Customs and the Commissioner of Police jointly expressed deep concern over the continued attempts to bring methamphetamine into Samoa.
They emphasized the devastating impact of the drug on families, particularly young people, noting that addiction is escalating and can lead to severe harm and even fatalities.
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to protecting Samoa’s borders and ensuring the safety and wellbeing of our people.
“Customs and Police remain committed in our determination to identify and dismantle drug networks. We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure all those responsible face justice and to ensure a safe, secure and prosperous Samoa”.
MCR and MPPCS cautioned individuals involved in these illegal activities to refrain from bringing drugs into Samoa. Any individual or groups of people who persist, will face severe penalties including lengthy prison terms.
These operations reflect the importance of close interagency collaboration in the fight against transnational crime as emphasized in its joint campaign, “Say NO to Illegal Drugs / Tetee atu i fualaau fa’asaina”.
Both leaders commended the professionalism and vigilance demonstrated by all officers involved, noting that the successful operations reflect the continued effectiveness of joint border security efforts.
The interceptions represent success in the ongoing fight against illicit drugs and highlight the importance of strong interagency cooperation in safeguarding Samoa.
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