Riders Against Meth honours 21-year-old killed by spiked drink

The Riders Against Meth (RAM) fundraiser will take place this Saturday to raise money for the Save Our Babies Charitable Trust.

The fundraiser, called ‘Ride for Aiden’, aims to raise awareness about the dangers of methamphetamine use and support families affected by addiction.

A motorcycle convoy will leave from Rotorua on Saturday morning and finish at Clarks Beach in Auckland.

The event pays tribute to Aiden Ma’aseia Iosefa Sagala, who died in March 2023 from a methamphetamine overdose after drinking from a spiked beer can.

RAM ambassador Bryan (who requested his last name be withheld) started the ride two years ago after Sagala’s death.

“I reached out to his family and said we’d like to keep Aiden’s name alive.”

The 21-year-old, who was not involved in the drug trade, fell victim after innocently consuming a methamphetamine-laced beer after work.

Himatjit ‘Jimmy’ Singh Kahlon, Sagala’s former manager at Fonterra, is now serving 21 years in prison for manslaughter and possession of meth for supply.

All proceeds will be donated to Save Our Babies Charitable Trust, which works alongside whānau to provide support and empowerment.

Charity founder Kahira-Rata Olley MNZM (Ngāti Rongamai, Ngāti Pikiao, Ngāti Toa Rangatira, Whakatohea) says she has noticed whānau with existing trauma are more likely to be affected by meth use.

“I’d say 98 per cent of people that come to me with addictions have experienced domestic violence and sexual abuse.

“There are the consequences of meth, and then there is trauma that has led someone to taking meth.”

The National Drugs in Wastewater Testing Programme revealed a more than 100% increase in methamphetamine levels between July and September 2024.

Bryan says meth use in New Zealand is a serious concern, particularly because children are being exposed to it.

“Mums and dads are consuming drugs while the kids are in the house, so effectively they’re consuming.

“I created the ride to raise awareness about the dangers of meth not only to individuals but to the community.”