Waikato Police say strong community support and significant investment by Police has had a major impact on organised crime in the Eastern Waikato, particularly around Te Aroha.
Crime Services Coordinator, Detective Senior Sergeant Mark Greene, said Police from across the Waikato had combined as part of Operation Daydream which culminated in nine arrests today with more likely to follow.
A number of search warrants were executed by around 40 Police staff at Te Aroha, Paeroa, Matamata and Waiuku.
“Operation Daydream was focused on the dealing of methamphetamine in and around Te Aroha, alongside dishonesty offending in the same area.”
“Our investigation was greatly assisted by information supplied by members of the community, who are concerned about the harm caused to people in their town caught up in the use of methamphetamine.”
Mr Greene those persons arrested included a man and woman apprehended in a vehicle behind a service station in Bombay overnight.
“Others have been arrested and charged with a variety of charges including dishonesty offences and the supplying of methamphetamine. The latter charges of course carry maximum prison terms of life imprisonment to reflect on the harm caused to individuals and society from such offending.
Mr Greene said two shotguns were among items located during the searches and charges are likely to follow in relation to those firearms.
“Investigations to date lead us to believe that many of those arrested are known to each other, and they have worked as a group supplying the drug in and around Te Aroha.”
Mr Greene said today’s arrests highlighted the rich community spirit alive in Te Aroha whose residents he hopes will continue to support those caught up using this insidious drug.
“And we as Police are also there to support both the local community, and those so affected to get the help they need. The first step is if you know something do something and that is phone us. Your calls are treated in confidence or, if you prefer, information can be left anonymously with the independent Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
"There is no good at all that comes from the peddling or the use of this drug."
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