A major police operation targeting the trafficking of highly addictive Class A drugs, including cocaine and methamphetamine, in Christchurch has resulted in the restraint of approximately $4.8 million worth of assets, including properties, vehicles, and cash.
New Zealand Police say the action follows a parallel investigation by the Southern Asset Recovery Unit, which was granted a restraining order under the Criminal Proceeds (Recovery) Act 2009.
The development follows the arrest and charging of six people two weeks ago after police executed more than 10 search warrants across Christchurch, including at the Christchurch King Cobra Chapter's headquarters in Addington.
Police say officers have carried out two additional search warrants over the past 10 days.
Authorities have restrained four properties, 27 vehicles, including jet skis, motorbikes and a caravan, along with more than $100,000 in cash.
National Organised Crime Group Acting Crime Manager Detective Inspector Rebecca Cotton says organised crime groups primarily exist to make money, and the restraints have removed significant capital that would otherwise have continued to benefit the group and contribute to harm in the community.
Cotton says the months-long operation demonstrates the extent police are prepared to go to prevent harm and ensure communities remain safe.
Southern Asset Recovery Unit Detective Inspector Maania Piahana says the restrained assets were obtained through unlawful activities that caused serious harm within the community.
Piahana says police will continue to use every available method to disrupt and dismantle organised crime groups and strip them and their associates of illegally obtained wealth.
Police say they are unable to comment further as the matter is now before the courts.
Source: stuff.co.nz
