Official statement from New Zealand Police

Auckland City Mission Recalls Meth-Laced Candy Amid Health Scare

Aug 14, 2024, 06:11 AM

A New Zealand charity, Auckland City Mission, has issued an urgent recall after unknowingly distributing pineapple-flavored candies laced with potentially lethal amounts of methamphetamine. The candies, donated anonymously in a sealed branded package, were handed out in food parcels. The contamination was discovered when the sweets tested positive for meth, prompting a police investigation. At least three individuals, including a child and a teenager, have sought medical attention after consuming the meth-laced candies. The New Zealand Drug Foundation reported that the meth content in each candy was up to 300 times the usual dose, making each piece worth approximately $1000. The charity has apologized and is working with authorities to retrieve the distributed candies and prevent further harm. Efforts are underway to contact 400 people who received the contaminated sweets.