Law & Order
- Police arrested ten people and laid over seventy drug-related charges after multiple search warrants
- Officers seized $16,000 in cash, drugs, ammunition, and drug equipment across Southland and Otago
- Investigations under Operation Strata will continue with more arrests and charges expected soon
Ten people have been arrested and are facing more than 70 charges after police executed a series of drug-related search warrants across Southland and Otago this week.
Police seized around $16,000 in cash, ammunition, illegal drugs, and drug-related equipment during the operation. The raids were carried out under Operation Strata, an ongoing initiative targeting drug dealers with gang connections in the southern region.
Detective Senior Sergeant Greg Baird said, “Our message is clear – drug dealers are not welcome in our communities, and neither is the harm that comes with them.”
In total, 15 warrants were executed across Invercargill, Dunedin, Gore, Mataura, and several rural locations. The coordinated effort involved over 30 staff from various police units, including the Southland and Otago Coastal Organised Crime teams and the Te Waipounamu Gang Disruption Unit based in Christchurch.
The ten individuals arrested now face a range of serious charges, including supplying methamphetamine, MDMA, cocaine, LSD, and cannabis, as well as possessing restricted weapons and ammunition.
Gore Man Found With 478 Firearms
* Police discovered nearly 500 firearms, many unsecured and unregistered, at a Gore property * Only six weapons were registered to the licence holder whose purchasing history raised concerns * Investigation will examine whether the weapons were intended for sale or criminal use Police in Gore have seized 478 firearms from a local
Mike Sanford
Detective Senior Sergeant Baird added, “Police will continue our focus on disrupting the supply of drugs to our communities, and holding to account those suppliers who make money through the harm and suffering of others.”
Police confirmed that investigations are ongoing and more arrests and charges are expected in the coming days.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the supply of illegal drugs to contact police through 105, either online or via phone. Anonymous tips can also be provided through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
Support is available for those struggling with addiction through the Alcohol and Drug Helpline on 0800 787 797 or by free texting 8681.