Quantities of methamphetamine, GBL and cannabis, and approximately $90,000 in cash, have been seized during drug raids in Otaki.
Members of the Manawatu Organised Crime Unit, Armed Offenders Squad, Asset Recovery Unit, and specialist dog unit were executing search warrants at two residential properties in the Otaki township on Friday 26 August. Staff from other Police Districts were also utilised as part of the searches.
The cash was located at one of the addresses.
At the first address, a 47-year-old Otaki man was arrested and charged with possession methamphetamine for supply, possession ammunition, cultivation cannabis and possession cannabis. It is likely that further charges will be filed once further examinations on items seized have been completed.
He has been remanded in custody to appear in the Levin District Court on Wednesday 14 September, 2016.
A 42-year-old Otaki woman was also arrested for breach of bail.
From the second address, a 27-year-old Otaki woman now faces 18 charges relating to the possession and supply of methamphetamine and GBL.
She has been remanded in custody to appear in the Levin District Court on Thursday 1 September, 2016.
“These search warrants were executed due to concerns raised by the Otaki community," said Detective Sergeant Dave Thompson, of the Manawatu Organised Crime Unit. "It is fantastic that we have this result for those people who have had enough of methamphetamine and other controlled drugs affecting their community.
"When people are driving past applauding while the warrant is being executed, then you know you are doing something right.
"I encourage people to come forward with what they see and hear about drug dealing in their community as the two warrants executed are examples of what can be achieved with the assistance of the community.”
Anyone with information about any crime can report it anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
As the matter is now before the courts, police are unable to provide further comment.
ENDS
Released by the Police Media Centre
Media note: Detective Sergeant Dave Thompson is not available to provide any audio or vision for this release.