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Source: Photos.com
A New Zealand couple has been arrested after they were allegedly found with five kilograms of cocaine on board a cruise ship in San Francisco.
US Customs officials performed a routine search of the vessel when it docked at the Port of San Francisco following a cruise in the Caribbean.
The officials reportedly found five kilograms of cocaine in the cabin apparently shared by New Zealanders Tony Wilkinson, 42, and Kirsty Harris, 25.
The San Francisco Chronicle also reported that Customs found a further seven kilograms concealed in a suitcase belonging to Ahmed Rachid, who is an Australian citizen.
As yet it is unclear whether the two parties were acquainted, but authorities are alleging that Rachid was working with Wilkinson and Harris to smuggle in the cocaine.
All three have been arrested for possession with intent to distribute cocaine.
Customs officer Edward Low, quoted in the Chronicle, said the arrests were made on January 25 after a routine inspection and Customs was not acting on a tip-off.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade said it was aware of the case and consular assistance has been offered to the New Zealanders involved.
- with Newstalk ZB
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