New Zealand Charity's Pineapple Candy Blunder

A New Zealand charity apologized for distributing pineapple-flavored candies laced with lethal methamphetamine. The Auckland City Mission, which aids those in need, discovered the issue after complaints from recipients. Police suspect an international drug trafficking operation and urge handing over the contaminated candies.

A New Zealand charity issued an apology on Wednesday after pineapple-flavored candies distributed by them were found to contain potentially lethal amounts of methamphetamine.

The Auckland City Mission, known for providing essential aid to New Zealanders in need, became aware of the issue when recipients complained about the taste. A child, a teenager, and a charity worker sought medical treatment after consuming the sweets, though none are hospitalized, according to Detective Inspector Glenn Baldwin of Auckland police.

There is no suggestion of wrongdoing by the charity. The candies were donated by an unknown individual and tested by the New Zealand Drug Foundation, revealing that they contained up to 3 grams of methamphetamine, equating to roughly 300 doses. The police believe the candies are linked to an international drug trafficking operation and are investigating how they entered the country.

(With inputs from agencies.)