Melted down gold from stolen jewellery was among items seized in Operation Atlas, which targeted the Head Hunters gang and methamphetamine.
Eleven people are expected to appear in the Whangarei District Court this afternoon as part of the major operation targeting the Head Hunters gang and the manufacture and supply of methamphetamine.
They will face a variety of charges including:
• Manufactures methamphetamine
• Supplies methamphetamine
• Possession of methamphetamine for supply
• Money laundering (under the provisions of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1975)
• Participates in an organised criminal group
As result of the searches carried out today, Police have recovered, $20,000.00 cash, 40 grams of methamphetamine, 1kg of ephedrine which is enough to make 68 grams of meth, $6,500.00 of gold that has been melted down, a stolen five tonne digger and a stolen motorbike.
Northland Criminal Investigations Manager Detective Inspector Kevin Burke says, “Operation Atlas” will reduce the supply of methamphetamine in Northland and has dismantled a group involved in criminal activities that are linked to the Head Hunters.
“The discovery of some of these people in possession of melted down gold illustrates how the drug trade and dishonesty are intrinsically linked. That gold was someone’s stolen jewellery with a significant sentimental as well as real value. This activity causes considerable harm and social cost to the Northland community.”
National Manager Organised Crime Detective Superintendent Virginia Le Bas says the Head Hunters gang have a significant influence over the New Zealand methamphetamine market.
“This drug is the root of so much misery. Kiwis from all walks of life have been caught in its grip and the downward spiral of meth addiction. As well as targeting those who manufacture and supply meth, Police will continue to promote intervention and support for those who want help with addictions.”
Dr Alistair Dunn, addiction medicine specialist at the Northland District Health Board (NDHB) says an important part of reducing drug related harm is reducing supply and availability and the police have, today, made an important contribution to reducing methamphetamine supply.
“I also wish to acknowledge the police for the work they do every day dealing with people experiencing harm from methamphetamine use, including not just the people who use but also those around them that are adversely affected. Like the police, people working in the addictions field witness daily the harm from drug use.
Mr Dunn says methamphetamine is a potent, highly addictive drug that affects all sectors of the community.
Anyone needing assistance with substance use is encouraged to ring the Alcohol Drug Helpline or contact their local DHB Community Mental Health & Addictions service for help.
Operation Atlas is ongoing and Police expect to make further arrests over the next few days. Anybody with information on any criminal activity is urged to contact their nearest police station or alternatively contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
Issued by Northland Police Communications Manager Sarah Kennett, 09 945 4650 or 021 192 1099
