Police have seized a large amount of stolen property, cannabis plants and a methamphetamine lab during search warrants held this week.
On Tuesday March 4, more than 20 police staff searched five properties in Whangärei as part of an operation targeting a group believed to be involved in an organised burglary ring involving residential properties and vehicles.
The properties searched were located at Onerahi, Otaika, Mata, One Tree Point and the Whangärei central area.
At a central Whangärei property Police found a large indoor cannabis growing operation and they seized 330 plants, which were at various stages of growth.
Police also found some chemicals and equipment used for the manufacture of methamphetamine.
At the Onerahi property Police located a methamphetamine lab.
A large amount of stolen property was also found at several of the addresses that were searched.
Property included kayaks, cameras, four vehicles, jewellery, clothing, marine equipment, diving gear and horse saddles.
Five people were arrested; a 53-year-old man, two 22-year-old men, a 31-year-old woman, and a 21-year-old woman.
They appeared in the Whangärei District Court yesterday facing numerous charges including burglary, cultivating cannabis, manufacturing methamphetamine, possession for supply of cannabis, possession of equipment/precursor to manufacture methamphetamine, unlawfully taking a motor vehicle and theft. Further charges are likely.
Whangärei CIB Detective Senior Sergeant Dene Begbie says these people were part of syndicate of dishonesty and drug offenders.
"It has been a great effort by Police staff with a thorough investigation that has led to the arrest of these criminals and recovery of a large amount of stolen property"
Mr Begbie says it is very pleasing to recover the stolen property and hopefully police can identify the owners of this property and get it back to them.
Police will be looking at recent burglaries and getting in touch with the victims to see if any of the property belongs to them.
They also encourage anyone who has been the victim of a burglary to come forward and see if they can identify any stolen items.
Mr Begbie says this was a successful police operation, which has put a large dent in a crime ring involving drugs, burglary, theft and stealing vehicles.
"We have caught these people and we will continue to go after others who choose to carry out this criminal activity."
For media inquiries contact Northland Police Communications Manager Sarah Kennett on 09 430 4525 or 021 192 1099.
