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Singapore CNB Helps Disrupt Transnational Drug Syndicate
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By Alice Smith | SINGAPORE – 2025/09/22 10:11:18
SINGAPORE’s Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) played a crucial role in dismantling a transnational drug trafficking syndicate with teh help of authorities from the US, Brunei, New Zealand, and Australia. The collaborative effort hinged on the seamless exchange of intelligence between the participating agencies, according to a joint news release issued on Monday (Sep 22).
The agencies involved included the US’ Drug Enforcement Governance (DEA), the Narcotics Control Bureau of Brunei Darussalam (NCB), New Zealand Customs Service, New Zealand Police, the Australian Federal Police (AFP), and the Australian border Force (ABF).
In April 2025, the CNB received information regarding freight parcels suspected of containing controlled drugs.These parcels, which originated from the US and were en route to New Zealand, were intercepted and seized by the CNB.Authorities discovered more than 10kg of Ice, or methamphetamine, within the parcels. Subsequent investigations and monitoring by the CNB identified additional similar parcels destined for New Zealand and Australia.
Based on intelligence provided by the CNB, new Zealand customs officials intercepted two drug-laden parcels in April and June, seizing a total of 10kg of methamphetamine. The estimated street value of this haul in New Zealand was approximately NZ$3 million (US$1.76 million).
Prior to this,Brunei’s NCB conducted multiple seizures of methamphetamine,totaling 49kg,between November 2024 and April 2025. These drugs were intended for various countries in the Middle East, Europe, east Asia, and Australasia.
“It was suspected that these seizures belonged to the same syndicate as CNB and new Zealand Customs’ seizures.” The authorities noted that “The modus operandi was similar – concealment of the narcotics within electronic devices and routing them through courier and virtual office services to obscure the origin of the shipments.”
Further intelligence sharing with the AFP and ABF enabled Australian authorities to intercept and seize multiple consignments in may of this year. These consignments contained approximately 40kg of methamphetamine destined for Australia. The contraband was concealed within furniture, mixed coffee, and mustard shipments.
“The modus operandi was similar – concealment of the narcotics within electronic devices.”
Authorities estimate that if the drugs had reached the Australian community, they would have had a street value of A$37 million, equating to approximately 400,000 individual street deals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is methamphetamine?
Methamphetamine is a potent and highly addictive stimulant drug that affects the central nervous system. It is indeed chemically similar to amphetamine, but its effects are more pronounced and longer-lasting.
What is transnational drug trafficking?
Transnational drug trafficking involves the coordinated efforts of individuals and groups across national borders to manufacture, distribute, and sell illegal drugs.
Which agencies were involved in this operation?
The agencies involved were the CNB, DEA, NCB, new zealand Customs Service, New Zealand Police, AFP, and ABF.
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