22 May 2026
5 months ago
1035 views
Budget 2026 allocates $81.5 million to enhance New Zealand Customs' capacity to combat illegal drugs and organized crime through upgraded equipment, improved facilities, and expanded international presence. The funding supports two main initiatives: $70.7 million for domestic border security enhancements and $10.8 million to establish four new international liaison posts in strategic regions to disrupt criminal networks offshore. Customs Minister Casey Costello emphasizes the importance of these investments in strengthening border protection, international cooperation, and maintaining efficient trade facilitation amid rising smuggling threats.
18 May 2026
5 months ago
903 views
Customs and Associate Police Minister Casey Costello is visiting Samoa and Fiji to fulfill her responsibilities and attend the Pacific Transnational Crime Summit Minister’s meeting. The summit, jointly hosted by Fiji and Australia, gathers over 15 Pacific Police Ministers to enhance regional cooperation against transnational crime. During her visit, Ms. Costello is meeting with Samoan officials and conducting operational visits to key security facilities in Samoa.
20 Dec 2025
10 months ago
1657 views
Associate Police Minister Casey Costello announced a new all-of-government strategy and action plan to combat Transnational, Serious and Organised Crime (TSOC) in New Zealand, aiming to make the country the hardest place for organised criminal groups to operate. The plan focuses on improving cross-agency coordination, information sharing, addressing methamphetamine harm, and strengthening community resilience through initiatives like ROCC. This five-year strategy responds to increasing organised crime threats, including drug trade and money laundering, and is informed by expert advice to enhance governance, accountability, and resource use across government agencies.