Three Chinese nationals have been arrested at Auckland Airport with a “large quantity of cash” as police allege they had been operating a “blessing scam”.
Detectives detained a 50-year-old man and two women, aged 59 and 53, before they checked in for flights to China yesterday.
The trio have been jointly charged with two counts of obtaining by deception.
Photos released by police showed thousands in seized cash across several different currencies.
Detective Senior Sergeant Craig Bolton alleged the trio had been operating a “blessing scam” while in New Zealand. The charges relate to two victims — one who lost $14,500 and jewellery, and another who lost $15,000, police said.
The three Chinese nationals first arrived in New Zealand on October 10.
Bolton said: “Police alleged that two days later, they began operating a blessing scam — a form of fraud targeting immigrant or elderly communities who are deceived into believing they or their loved ones are cursed or in spiritual danger.”
He said police were still tallying the money recovered, but that it was “substantial” and that authorities are appealing for possible victims to come forward.
“Perpetrators of blessing scams pose as healers or spiritual practitioners, offering to remove the curse or bring good fortune in exchange for money or valuable items,” Bolton said.
“Victims are pressured to hand over cash or jewellery, typically instructed not to open the packages they receive, only to later discover that the contents are worthless.
“While the financial crime unit has identified two victims so far, it’s highly likely more people were targeted.
“We urge anyone who may have fallen victim to this scam to contact us and encourage members of New Zealand’s Chinese community to talk with elderly relatives and make a report if they have been scammed.”
The senior sergeant said there was a “notable rise in cases in Auckland in recent years”.
Bolton said: “In New Zealand, blessing scams have predominantly targeted Chinese communities, exploiting cultural beliefs in spiritual healing and curses.
“This type of fraud has been active in New Zealand for more than 15 years, with a notable rise in cases in Auckland in recent years.
“Police have continued to raise awareness within at-risk communities, yet these fraudulent activities persist, often carried out by well-coordinated groups.
“Police remain committed to protecting all members of the public from fraud and financial harm, and ensuring that everyone feels safe from deceptive practices.
“We encourage the community to stay vigilant against scams and to remain cautious when approached by individuals offering unsolicited services.”
The accused were remanded in custody following their arrest and are due to appear in the Auckland District Court today, police said.
People with information have been urged to contact police on 105.