NZ Navy Diver Discovers Record Cocaine Haul in Pacific, Highlights International Crime Syndicate Reach

A New Zealand Navy diver's discovery of a record cocaine haul floating in the Pacific Ocean has cast a spotlight on the extensive reach of international crime syndicates. Ethan Shergold described the find as 'unreal' and akin to a cinematic experience, underscoring the ongoing battle against drug trafficking in international waters. The operation, dubbed 'Hydros,' involved a coalition of international partners and shed light on the intricate networks of transnational crime cells targeting New Zealand and Australia due to high drug prices.

Unprecedented Discovery in the Pacific

During the late January 2023 operation, Navy diver Ethan Shergold and his team encountered 81 plastic bags of cocaine, each containing 40 bricks, adrift in the Pacific Ocean. The haul, captured on GoPro footage, was found 1200 nautical miles east of New Zealand, near Fiji or Tonga. This discovery not only highlights the vast scale of drug trafficking operations but also marks a significant seizure for the New Zealand Navy, which typically conducts searches on ships entering ports rather than open sea expeditions.

Global Networks Targeting the 'Golden Nugget'

New Zealand's high drug prices make it an attractive target for international drug syndicates. Detective Superintendent Greg Williams, national manager of operations for the Police organised crime group, emphasizes that New Zealand is seen as the 'golden nugget' by these organizations. The operation revealed the sophisticated strategies employed by cartels, including establishing local cells, creating fake companies, and laundering money. Notably, the Sinaloa Cartel, recognized from the Netflix series Narcos, has been implicated in these operations, demonstrating the global nature of these criminal enterprises.

Implications for Regional Security

The significant drug find off the coast of New Zealand serves as a wake-up call for regional security and the ongoing efforts to combat transnational crime. With 25 identified crime cells involving individuals from 17 different countries, the operation underscores the complex and interconnected nature of drug trafficking networks. The recent seizure in Fiji, destined for New Zealand and Australia, further exemplifies the challenges faced by law enforcement in curtailing the flow of illegal drugs across borders.

The record haul of cocaine discovered by the New Zealand Navy diver not only signifies a victory against drug trafficking but also highlights the persistent and evolving threat of international crime syndicates. As these organizations continue to target New Zealand and its neighbors, the collaborative efforts of international law enforcement and intelligence agencies remain crucial in safeguarding regional security and combating the global drug trade.