Police Have Tracked Down 65 Meth-Laced Candies

Police in New Zealand have managed to obtain 41 methamphetamine-laced candies distributed unknowingly by an Auckland food bank. Each candy, wrapped to mimic a Malaysian confectionery brand, contained a potentially lethal dose of the drug. Authorities are working to retrieve more contaminated sweets from the public, with 65 accounted for so far, though the exact number in circulation remains unknown.

The Auckland City Mission began an urgent recall of up to 400 food parcels after a recipient reported a suspicious-tasting sweet. Testing confirmed the candies were solid methamphetamine. Fortunately, no one was seriously harmed; three individuals received hospital treatment before being discharged. Missioner Helen Robinson noted the candies' "revolting" taste resulting in most people spitting them out immediately.

New Zealand Drug Foundation stated the amount of meth in each candy was significantly higher than a typical dose and could be fatal. Disguising drugs as everyday items is a common smuggling tactic. With each candy valued at 1,000 New Zealand dollars ($608), authorities suspect the donation was accidental. Investigations are ongoing to determine if the incident was a failed importation scheme. The food bank accepts only sealed, commercially produced food. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)