12 Dec 2018

Further arrests as police crackdown on meth in Rotorua

3:20 pm on 12 December 2018

Three more people have been arrested in Rotorua today as part of a major operation targeting the sale and supply of methamphetamine in the city.

Rotorua Police Station

Rotorua Police Station Photo: RNZ / Rebekah Parsons-King

A man and two women were arrested today and face a range of methamphetamine-related charges. They will appear in Rotorua District Court.

Police also seized cash and a firearm, and recovered a significant amount of stolen property.

The ongoing major operation involving Rotorua Police, the National Organised Crime Group and the National Asset Recovery Unit led to the arrest of four people last week, including the restraint of nearly $400,000 worth of assets and the recovery of 15 ounces of methamphetamine.

Rotorua Area Commander Inspector Anaru Pewhairangi said those dealing methamphetamine could expect to be targeted by police.

"I said last week, and I will say it again, Rotorua Police will not stand by and let these individuals sell illicit drugs and accumulate wealth at the expense of the vulnerable members of our community."

"The harm that methamphetamine causes in our community cannot be overstated," he said.

Police also asked the community to report such activity in their locality.

"We would urge anyone who has concerns about activity in their neighbourhood to either call police, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

"We cannot do this alone and we need your help to combat this scourge on our community."

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