Counties Manukau Police hit drug 'jackpot'

Counties Manukau Police continue to fight the war on drugs with Operation Foiled achieving outstanding results. Last week alone over 50 Police Officers in Counties Manukau working on the operation recovered: 311 grams of Methamphetamine with a street value of over $300k, $41k in cash, two kilo grams of cannabis, 420 New Psychoactive Substance pills (an imitation of ecstasy), 190 LSD tabs, six firearms and other drug paraphernalia.

Operation Foiled targets street level drug dealing, and provides a consistent approach across Counties Manukau. It has been running since 2009 and continues to get excellent results district wide.

Acting Crime Manager Inspector Gary Hill Says, "To recover 311 grams of methamphetamine in a week is an achievement. Since the end of January 2012 to now over all we have recovered 412 grams.

We are constantly targeting organised criminals who are earning a living from the manufacture and distribution of illicit drugs," said Mr Hill.

New Zealand Police Methamphetamine Control Strategy ensures that profits and assets made through dealing drugs can be recovered. As a result of last weeks warrants assets including: six cars, four bikes and a house are now under investigation by the Counties Manukau Financial Investigation Unit.

"The consequences of drugs are harmful, especially Methamphetamine. Its impacts are wide-reaching and often translate into other areas of offending such as burglary, stolen cars, serious violence and intimidation," said Inspector Hill.

In total 22 warrants were executed across the district including: Papatoetoe, Otahuhu, Mangere, Otara, East Tämaki, Pakuranga, Maraetai, Manurewa, Papakura, Pukekohe, and Patumahoe.

"Police are appreciative of the information they receive from the public, this is what helps with operations such as Foiled. There is also always the capability of using Crimestoppers the anonymous information line," said Mr Hill.

Counties Manukau Police have an important enforcement and education role to play in reducing criminal activity. They work closely with partners like health agencies, and community groups to reduce the impact of drugs and crime.

If members of the community see anything suspicious, they are urged to contact Police immediately on 111. Alternatively information can be provided anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 111 555.

NB - Acting Crime Manager Gary Hill will be available for interview between 9.00am and 10.00am. Please contact Counties Manukau Communications Manager on 027 434 2218 to schedule.