Further eight arrests in Wellington District 'Operation Hunter'

A further eight people have been arrested as part of Operation Hunter, now bringing the total number of arrests to 25.

Officer in charge of the Covert Operations Group Detective Inspector Darrin Thomson says the undercover operation has seen 25 search warrants executed this morning in Upper Hutt, Wellington, Masterton, Martinborough, Carterton and rural Wairarapa.

Throughout the course of the morning, Police have located a significant hydroponics cannabis operation and a large amount of dried cannabis at a residential address in Upper Hutt.

"We were also concerned to find two firearms at the property, as firearms and drugs are a lethal cocktail, which also present issues for both Police and the community."

One male and a female will be appearing in the Upper Hutt District Court later today charged in connection to this.

Amongst items located at Wellington addresses was $20,000 in cash and 200 LSD tabs, with an approximate street value of $8000.

Over the past few months, Police have also dismantled a drug syndicate operating within the Wellington District, believed to be responsible for selling $2 million worth of methamphetamine over the past two years.

"I believe we have significantly disrupted the criminal fraternity and drug supply chain across the Wellington District."

Those arrested face charges including dealing Class A, B and C controlled drugs, including methamphetamine, LSD, ecstasy, cannabis oil and prescription medicines Ritalin and Valium.

As part of Operation Hunter, Police have also recovered $100,000 worth of cash, as well as recovering six vehicles valued at around $150,000.

"Today's arrests symbolise the Police commitment to stamping out organised crime and illegal drug activity across this District. We will continue to take a zero-tolerance approach to ensure our communities are protected from the harm and destruction it causes."

The 25 people arrested range in age from 20 years to 58 years and include 22 men and three women. They are appearing in the Masterton, Upper Hutt and Wellington District Courts today.

The 150 Police involved in 'Operation Hunter' include staff from CIB, general duties branch (GDB), Wellington District Dog Section and Armed Offenders Squad (AOS).