Police confirm that Phillip Smith has been deported from Brazil and is en-route back to New Zealand.
Smith is being escorted by three New Zealand Police officers who will be with him for the duration of the journey.
Smith and his police escorts departed Rio de Janeiro earlier this morning after completion of the formalities required to effect his deportation.
This follows the decision from the Brazil Federal Court last week ordering deportation within 10 days.
Arrangements are in place to manage Smith's arrival back in New Zealand.
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Note police will not confirm any information at this time about flights or timings for Smith's return.