25 arrests in WBOP drug/burglary operation

Twenty-five people have been arrested in an area-wide operation this week targeting organised criminals responsible for the sale and distribution of illicit drugs and those involved in dealing in stolen property.

Thirty-two search warrants were executed across the Western Bay of Plenty Police area. More than 30 Police staff, assisted by other Government agencies, were involved in the multi-agency operation. The Armed Offenders Squad was not required to support any of the search warrants.

In the course of the operation, Police recovered quantities of methamphetamine, cannabis and magic mushrooms, approximately $6000 in cash, three firearms and ammunition, and stolen electrical equipment.

Those arrested are facing a range of charges related to possession of illicit drugs and for supply, cultivating cannabis, receiving stolen property and unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition. All those arrested have or will be appearing in the Tauranga District Court over the coming week.

The acting head of the Tauranga CIB, Detective Senior Sergeant Lindsay Pilbrow, says the operation had a dual focus to tackle the clear link between the organised distribution of illicit drugs, and burglaries and receiving stolen property.

"In short, organised criminals are those groups or individuals who are earning a living from criminal activity.

"This could be the manufacture and distribution of illicit drugs, burglaries, receiving and selling stolen property and cars and more. Serious violence and intimidation is often also a factor.

"This sort of activity causes significant harm in our community, and reducing this harm by disrupting organised crime groups is a priority for Western Bay of Plenty Police. Today's operation is another example of that."

One of the firearms recovered from a Mt Maunganui address is a powerful semi-automatic military style assault rifle, complete with ammunition.

"Obviously this is a disturbing recovery," says Detective Senior Sergeant Pilbrow.

"We are increasingly seeing the unlawful possession of firearms in association with the manufacture and distribution of illicit drugs. This coupled with the use of, or trade, in any illicit drug is potential for disaster."

Detective Senior Sergeant Pilbrow says Police rely heavily on information from members of the public in their efforts to reduce the harm of organised crime and illicit drugs. He urges anyone who has knowledge of or suspects drug dealing activity in the Western Bay of Plenty to contact Police.

"Police obviously have an enforcement role to play in society, but we can't operate alone. When all parts of the community work together, we can all make a real difference."

Detective Senior Sergeant Pilbrow urges anyone who has concerns about criminal activity in their community to contact Police directly, or to provide information anonymously via the Crimestoppers line, 0800 555 111.

"If you see something suspicious, please say something. We have a far greater chance of being able to catch offenders and hold them accountable if we know about suspicious activity sooner rather than later."