[ad_1]
Stuff
A computer seized by members of the National Organized Crime Squad during raids in the Bay of Plenty region in September
Eight people have been arrested and facing drug charges following police raids in the Bay of Plenty and Waikato region today.
Search warrants were carried out in Rotorua, Tauranga and Paeroa following a two-month investigation by the National Group Against Organized Crime targeting drug trafficking operations.
“This investigation initially stemmed from inquiries into a commercial property theft in Tauranga in November 2019, where a large quantity of iodine was stolen,” said Detective Sgt. Brett Shields.
“Iodine is a ‘material’ used in the manufacture of methamphetamine.”
READ MORE:
* Two arrested after methamphetamine, LSD and cannabis were found on Hira’s property
* Police raid Hells Angels gang platforms
* Search for order of success for national criminal group
Shields says they identified an extensive network involved in the importation of methamphetamine, GBL, MDMA, and precursors.
Six women and two men, ages 28 to 55, were arrested today and face a total of 42 charges including the importation of methamphetamine, GBL and MDMA, and the possession and distribution of these drugs.
Those arrested will appear in the district courts of Whakatāne, Hamilton and Rotorua in the coming days.
The police seized methamphetamine and MDMA, as well as LSD, cannabis, cash, Bitcoin, a UTE, and various electronic items used to coordinate the importation and distribution of drugs.
“These illicit drugs cause a significant amount of harm in New Zealand communities,” Shields said.
“They destroy the lives of users, in addition to harming their families and loved ones.”
“Police are committed to targeting and dismantling the operations of those seeking to profit from this damage, and we are confident that today’s operation will result in a major disruption to the supply of methamphetamine and other illicit drugs in the Bay of Plenty regions and Waikato. “
