Hamilton man selling synthetic cannabis arrested for second time in five days

The arrest of a man selling synthetic cannabinoids near a school holiday programme venue five days after his arrest for similar offending speaks volumes for the public raising their concerns according to Waikato Police.

Crime Services Coordinator, Detective Senior Sergeant Nigel Keall, said the 35-year-old man was arrested on Friday in the process of selling synthetic cannabis to a woman and her adult son in a car adjacent to a commercial building on Pembroke St.

"Members of the public contacted Police concerned about what the man was up to and worried that children in the area may be put at risk from his activities.

"As it turns out their concerns were fully justified. When searched he was found with 65 packets of synthetic cannabis on him and about $460 in cash. Five days earlier the sickness beneficiary was arrested in Garden Place and found with the same number of packets and $3000 in $20 notes."

Mr Keall said the man appears to be running an organised synthetic cannabis dealing operation.

"He seems to be dealing with his customers via text-bombs on his cell phone and has a large customer base throughout the City.

"Police visiting a property associated with this man recovered additional bags of synthetic cannabis. Charged with selling or supplying non approved psychoactive product and possession for sale/supply of a non-approved psychoactive product the man appeared in the Hamilton District Court on Saturday and is due to appear in the Hamilton District Court on 04 November."

Mr Keall said such incidents proved the value of the public relaying their concerns in a timely manner.

"Members of the public should be reassured that Police share their concerns about these substances and other, illegal drugs. If you contact Police you can be assured your call will be treated in confidence."

"Alternatively, if you can't speak to us directly, people can still leave information anonymously by ringing the independent Crimestoppers on 0800 555111."

End

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