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Police have today arrested eight people on drug-related charges after a number of search warrants were carried out in Rotorua, Tauranga and Paeroa.
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The search warrants followed a two-month investigation by Police’s National Organised Crime Group (NOCG) into a significant drug-dealing network operating in the Bay of Plenty and Waikato regions.
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“This investigation initially arose out of enquiries into the burglary of a commercial property in Tauranga in November 2019, where a large amount of iodine was stolen,” says Detective Senior Sergeant Brett Shields.?
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“Iodine is a ‘material’ used in the manufacture of methamphetamine. As our investigation unfolded we identified an extensive network involved in the importation of methamphetamine, GBL, MDMA, and pre-cursors used in the manufacturing of methamphetamine.”
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The investigation was headed up by NOCG’s National Clandestine Laboratory Response Team and supported by local staff, and uncovered a significant drug dealing network centred in the Bay of Plenty and extending into the Waikato region.?
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Six women and two men, aged from 28 to 55 years, were arrested today.
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They face a total of 42 charges including importing methamphetamine, GBL and MDMA, and possession and distribution of these drugs.
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Those arrested will appear in Whakatāne, Hamilton and Rotorua District Courts in the coming days.?
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Police today also seized a quantity of methamphetamine and MDMA, as well as LSD, cannabis, cash, Bitcoin, a ute (pictured), and a number of electronic items used in coordinating drug importation and distribution.
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“These illicit drugs cause a significant amount of harm in communities across New Zealand,” says Detective Senior Sergeant Shields.
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“They destroy the lives of users, as well as hurting users’ families and loved ones.”?
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“Police is committed to targeting and dismantling the operations of those who seek to profit from this harm, and we’re confident today’s operation will result in a major disruption to the supply of methamphetamine and other illicit drugs in the Bay of Plenty and Waikato regions.”
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We encourage anyone affected by drug addiction to seek help through the Alcohol and Drug Helpline on 0800 787 797, or free text 868.
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Anyone with information about drug offending in their communities is urged to contact Police. Information can also be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.?
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ENDS
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Issued by Police Media Centre.?
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