Police seized 250kg of cocaine worth an estimated $80m in Auckland after an overseas tip-off led to multiple arrests. A joint National Organised Crime Group and Customs investigation, Operation Toucan, found the drugs imported into New Zealand and concealed inside a shipping container that originated from Brazil. Customs officers discovered cocaine bricks in 10 duffel bags hidden within a legitimate cargo consignment at the Port of Tauranga. The container was then transported to Auckland under police watch. In the early hours of Thursday, three men were arrested as they allegedly tried to remove the cocaine from the container and transfer it to a van. A fourth man, believed to be acting as a lookout, was also arrested nearby. Police then executed six search warrants across Auckland. Officers seized four high-powered firearms at one address and arrested a fifth man. The five men, aged 29, 31, 32, 36 and 41, appeared in Auckland District Court charged with possession of cocaine for supply, possession of firearms, and participation in an organised criminal group. The operation was supported by Federal Police of Brazil, and Police and Customs said the investigation is ongoing, with further arrests or additional charges not ruled out.