Two men will face court after a fake wall concealing a cache of illegal items was uncovered during a search warrant in Beach Haven yesterday.
Waitematā Police were investigating the manufacture of illicit drugs when they received information linking suspects to methamphetamine production.
Operation Dryden was launched, and Detective Senior Sergeant Josh Lautogo says enquiries led investigators to a residential address on Ranch Avenue.
“Led by the Waitematā Offender Prevention Team, a search warrant was executed yesterday morning alongside the Gang Disruption Unit, Clan Lab Team, Dog Section, and Specialist Search Group.
“As the search was conducted, officers identified a fake magnetic wall hidden within a wardrobe.”
Staff accessed the wall and located a loaded .22 calibre firearm and secondary magazine; approximately 20,000 Pseudoephedrine tablets; and chemicals allegedly used in the production of methamphetamine.
It is alleged the precursor materials have the potential to yield approximately 1-2 kilograms of methamphetamine.
An ottoman inside the house was also found to be concealing thousands of dollars in cash.
Two men at the address were taken into custody without incident.
“This was an excellent result which will disrupt organised criminal activity and those engaged in the production of illicit drugs.
“Police will continue to target the individuals and groups driving this harm in our communities,” Detective Senior Sergeant Lautogo says.
A 21-year-old man has been charged with unlawful possession of a prohibited firearm; unlawful possession of ammunition; possession of materials, equipment with intent; and unlawful possession of explosives.
He has been remanded in custody and will reappear in North Shore District Court on 24 September.
A 49-year-old man will appear in North Shore District Court today, charged with possession of methamphetamine; possession of cannabis; unlawful possession of ammunition; and possession of materials, equipment with intent.
