Two shotguns and a cornucopia of illicit substances have been seized and three people arrested in Hastings, Hawke’s Bay.
It follows a search warrant executed last week as part of an investigation into the supply of illicit drugs.
A sawn-off shotgun, pump-action shotgun, ammunition, cannabis, cocaine, ketamine, MDMA, LSD, drug paraphernalia, and $12,000 cash were seized.
A 30-year-old patched Mongrel Mob member remains in custody following a court appearance. He’s facing charges of supplying cocaine, offering to supply cocaine, unlawful possession of two firearms and unlawful possession of ammunition.
A 29-year-old woman and a 22-year-old man have also been jointly charged with possession of cannabis, cocaine, MDMA, ketamine and LSD for supply. They have been granted bail.
All three are reappearing on 1 September in Hastings District Court.
Detective Senior Sergeant Karli Whiu says the seizure will have a significant impact on the availability of harmful drugs within the community.
“The combination of illicit drugs, firearms and large amounts of cash highlights the risks associated with organised criminal offending,” Detective Senior Sergeant Whiu says.
“Removing these drugs and weapons from circulation helps keep our communities safer and prevents further harm.
“While the seizure itself is significant, what concerns us most is that young children were living in an environment where drugs, firearms and ammunition were present. Police will continue targeting those whose offending puts both the community and children at risk.”
Police acknowledge the assistance of staff involved in the investigation and continue to make enquiries. Further charges may be laid as those enquiries progress.
Anyone with information about the supply of illicit drugs is encouraged to contact Police via 105 online or by calling 105. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
