Help your community by helping Police address organised crime

Methamphetamine is a problem for the Bay of Plenty, just as it is for every community in New Zealand, says the Bay of Plenty Police District Crime Manager, Detective Inspector Rob Jones.

"Our strategy to address that problem is a commitment to the national Organised Crime Control Strategy and the Methamphetamine Control Strategy. This is designed to disrupt manufacture and supply, reduce methamphetamine-related crime and harm, and hold organised criminals accountable through the justice system and by seizing their assets through the Criminal Proceeds (Recovery) Act 2009.

"Our focus is on targeting organised crime, particularly those who are earning a living from the manufacture and distribution of methamphetamine, and strengthening Bay of Plenty Police resources to address organised crime.

"Three years ago, Bay of Plenty Police established an Organised Crime squad, and in that time they have achieved considerable success. This squad is supported by a range of frontline staff from General Duties officers, CIB squads, specialist clandestine laboratory teams and the Armed Offenders Squad. Their roles include seizing drugs, identifying and arresting drug offenders and dismantling drug labs."

Detective Inspector Jones says Police are working to reduce drug crime using both law enforcement – affecting supply – and education, aimed at reducing demand.

"Police have an important enforcement and education role to play in reducing the harm of methamphetamine, but just as importantly, we work very closely with key partners like health agencies and community groups to address the issue.

"In addition, members of the public play an absolutely critical role in this issue. We need our communities to be hostile to organised crime and their activities, and to provide us with the information we need – anonymously if need be – to take action.

"Drugs cause harm in our communities, and methamphetamine is particularly damaging. Its impacts go far beyond the individual user, and often flow onto other crimes such as burglary and violence.

"Organised crime isn't something that happens somewhere else – sadly, its just as likely to be happening in your neighbourhood as it is in New Zealand's biggest cities," says Detective Inspector Jones.

"If people see anything suspicious, or notice any of the signs of a clandestine laboratory operation, please contact Police immediately – either by calling 111 or at their local Police station. Alternatively, they can provide information anonymously through the Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111.

"Please help yourself and your community by helping us."