Please attribute to Inspector Dan Mattison
Police have executed a number of search warrants aimed at reducing social harm in the community.
About 30 staff took part in an operation to prevent the supply of drugs, which commenced two weeks ago.
In the Nelson and Marlborough areas, approximately 900 cannabis plants were recovered.
In addition, Police seized:
- Two illegal firearms, one of which was loaded with ammunition.
- $1700.
- Methamphetamine and cannabis utensils.
Police executed 12 search warrants, six at residential addresses and a further six at rural locations. One indoor growing system was found.
Separately, approximately 50 sites on public land were visited by Police.
Eight people were arrested and will be prosecuted, and one person received a warning.
On the West Coast, almost 1,300 cannabis plants were recovered.
Ten firearms were recovered from a licensed firearms holder, and Police will examine whether the licence should be revoked.
Approximately 50 sites on public land were visited, along with a dozen urban and rural addresses.
At one public plot, more than 400 plants were recovered.
Seven people will be prosecuted from the West Coast searches. In addition, four people are yet to be spoken to. Separately, one person was given a warning.
“The supply of illicit drugs has a big impact on our community. People are committing dishonesty crimes such as burglary to fund their habit,” says Inspector Dan Mattison.
“Drugs ruin lives. We will ensure that anyone involved in drugs is referred to the appropriate agency for help.
“I also urge anybody that has a drug or alcohol addiction to contact the Alcohol Drug Helpline on 0800 787 797.”
The people being prosecuted by Police are in the process of being put before the courts.
All of the plants have been destroyed.
ENDS
Police Media Centre