Firearms, drugs, $1m cash seized in police searches
during lockdown. NZ.
More than 90 people were arrested and
nearly 50 firearms seized in a crackdown on
organised crime during Alert Levels 3 and 4.
During the lockdown more than 100
search warrants were executed.
National Organised Crime Group
manager Detective Superintendent Greg Williams said
the search warrants resulted in 93 arrests on more
than 250 charges.
Most of the charges related to the
manufacture and supply of methamphetamine, supply of
cannabis and MDMA, possession of firearms and
ammunition, and breaching court bail.
Gangs targeted include Comancheros,
Mongrel Mob, Black Power, Nomads, Head Hunters,
Rebels, King Cobras, Tribesmen, and Mongols.
Mr Williams said 25kg of
methamphetamine, 30kg of cannabis and small amounts
of cocaine, MDMA, GBL, and LSD were seized, as well
as more than $1.2 million in cash.
At least $4.4m has been forfeited and
another $2m has been restrained and will be subject
to further investigation pending forfeiture.
He said 14 clandestine labs were also
located and large amounts of chemicals and equipment
relating to methamphetamine manufacture seized.
Operation Nestegg, which was
terminated on 8 May, saw five arrests, hundreds of
thousands in cash, methamphetamine and rifles seized
following search warrants in Auckland and Tokoroa.