Seizure prompts call to fight P

A drug expert has called for a hard-hitting television education programme to cut methamphetamine use after a massive Customs seizure of pseudoephedrine, which could have been worth $28 million once made into P.

Customs intercepted 100 kilograms of Contac NT, a cold cure that has a high concentration of pseudoephedrine.

The haul was hidden inside chairs and sofas in a shipment from China to Auckland, and was stacked high across two kitchen-sized tables when paraded in front of media yesterday.

MethCon Group managing director Mike Sabin, whose company consults on methamphetamine policy, said there needed to be a TV-based education programme, more treatment for addicts, drug courts to sentence addicted offenders to treatment programmes, and life sentences for "high-end" drug dealers, to stem demand for the drug.

A hard-hitting television campaign in Montana, in the United States, had resulted in a 50 per cent reduction in P use, he said. "We're seizing this stuff because so many people want to use it. While it's great to see such large interceptions, it indicates a far more sinister overall picture."

Customs drug investigations manager Bill Perry said the seizure was the third largest made in New Zealand. "It's hugely significant for us ... This is why our people come to work."

Contac NT seemed to be the ingredient of choice for P makers, based on the amount intercepted, especially in the past four years, he said. "The method of importation is only limited by the imagination of the offenders."

Mr Sabin said: "Meth is a drug that steps out and bites back [and] I'm sure that we'll never arrest our way out of this problem."

Customs Minister Nanaia Mahuta and Police Minister Annette King said in a joint release that the toll could have been severe if the haul had not been made.

"Protecting communities from drugs needs a two-pronged attack; our border agencies and the police are doing their bit. However, individuals, families and communities must also be making their contribution by collectively saying no to drugs."

Two men have been charged with importing and possession, for supply, of a class C controlled drug.

- © Fairfax NZ News