Manawatu Police want to send a strong message to those involved in the cultivation and sale of illicit drugs that crime does not pay after officers disrupted a sophisticated cannabis growing network operating from Levin and seized almost half a million dollars worth of assets.
Operation Octopus terminated yesterday morning (11 February 2014) and involved a search warrant being executed at a rural property in Levin. The operation stems from an eight month investigation into an illicit drug supplier in Auckland.
Officers supported by the Armed Offenders Squad searched the property and located a sophisticated indoor growing cannabis operation. Forty-two plants in various stages of growth were seized — 36 were located inside and 6 were located growing outside. Seven firearms were also seized, one of which was a loaded shotgun found in a bedroom.
Police seized under the Criminal Proceeds (Recovery) Act 2009 the rural property, a boat and trailer, a 4x4 vehicle, and a ride on lawn mower.
"This operation sends a strong message to those in the criminal fraternity that crime does not pay. You can expect to be caught and where appropriate assets seized for forfeiture proceedings," says Constable Jim Dunlop, Operation Octopus Coordinator.
"We will take swift action against those who spread harm through supplying and selling illicit drugs."
Police believe the cannabis grown at the property was being transported to Auckland for sale there.
A 47-year-old man and a 45-year-old woman have been jointly charged with cultivating cannabis, possession of cannabis for supply, and selling cannabis. Further charges against the two are likely. They will both appear in the Levin District Court on the 20th of February 2014.
Staff from the Manawatü, Horowhenua, and Wellington were involved in the operation. Twelve staff executed the warrant at the property.
"An immense amount of time and effort from various units within the Police and other organisations was put into this operation and as a result a sizeable dent has been made in the cultivation, sale, and supply of cannabis in the North Island.
"Police is committed to dismantling illicit drug networks and public support is vital in helping us keep drugs out of communities ensuring they are safe places to live," says Constable Dunlop.
If anyone has any information about drug cultivation, manufacture or supply rings please contact your local Police Station. Information can also be provided anonymously to the organisation Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Note: Images of the cannabis plants seized along with the boat are available upon request.
Media enquiries should be referred to Communications Manager Sara Stavropoulos on 027 702 0850.
