Whanganui Tactical Crime group yesterday discovered more than they were looking for while executing a search warrant at an address in Whanganui following a spate of rural burglaries.
Seven firearms were found at the residental property, and at least one of them was loaded. A large amount of ammunition for these firearms was also found.
Also located was approximately 14 grams of what is believed to be methamphetamine and $11,450 in cash.
Between $10,000 and $15,000 worth of property has been identified as coming from recent burglaries in the Whanganui area. It is believed that there will be further property identified as being stolen from burglaries.
It was clear to Police that occupants of this address had ties to an organised criminal gang.
A 45-year-old Whanganui man was due to appear in the Whanganui District Court today after being charged with Possession of Methamphetamine for Supply.
Another man aged 37 from Whanganui was also arrested today in relation to yesterday's search warrant and he faces the following charges; Seven charges of Unlawful possession of a firearm, one of Unlawful possession of amunition and two burglary charges.
“The result from this warrant is outstanding. To get seven firearms off the street and out of the hands of criminals is extremely pleasing," says Detective Sergeant Dave Thompson.
“Police continue to target organised criminal groups and the negative effect they have within our communities through disrupting their activity and holding offenders to account for their offending, taking these weapons and drugs off the street before they harmed anyone is a great result for our community.
“Being able to return stolen property to the rightful owners, really caps it off.
“This is a fantastic example of the work being done to ensure our community is safe.”
We would encourage anyone who has concerns about organised criminal activity in their community to contact their local Police or report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre