3 May 2023

Police seize methamphetamine and firearm in Northland

2:27 pm on 3 May 2023
Methamphetamine, cash and a firearm were seized after Operation Cobalt staff searched a Johnston Road property in Kawakawa on 2 May, 2023.

Methamphetamine, cash and a firearm were seized after Operation Cobalt staff searched a Kawakawa property on 2 May, 2023. Photo: Supplied / Police

Police have seized drugs and firearms at a Northland property this week, which they say was linked to Black Power and alleged drug dealing.

A man was arrested and methamphetamine, cash and a firearm were seized after Operation Cobalt staff searched a Johnston Road property in Kawakawa on Tuesday.

Detective senior sergeant Kevan Verry said police targeted alleged drug dealing at the address, which was linked to the Black Power gang.

"At the address our staff have recovered a pump action shotgun, ammunition, and more than $3000 in cash.

"A kilogram of methamphetamine was also recovered, along with a small amount of cannabis."

A 48-year-old man is set to appear in Kaikohe District Court on Wednesday, facing numerous charges including possession of methamphetamine for supply, unlawful possession of a prohibited firearm, unlawful possession of ammunition, and possession of cannabis for supply.

Verry said police estimated the seized methamphetamine would have caused more than $1.1 million in social harm.

"That is an eye-watering figure for the communities in Northland given the numerous challenges they are facing in today's climate."

Police continued to ask the public to report illegal activity to investigators, either by visiting their local police station, contacting police on 105 or anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.