Driving illicit drugs from our communities is a daily focus

Wednesday, 4 June 2014 - 1:24pm

Bay of Plenty

308 criminal charges have been laid against more than 100 individuals during a Bay of Plenty police operation focused on illicit drugs.

The operation took place over three months across all four areas of the District – Rotorua, Eastern Bay or Plenty, Western Bay of Plenty and Taupo.

15,351 cannabis plants were recovered or destroyed in 315 locations as part of a phase targeting outdoor grows in predominantly rural areas.

During a second phase a series of search warrants were executed at properties, both urban and rural. This phase saw the seizure of methamphetamine, cannabis, LSD, ecstasy, firearms, ammunition and $28,000 in cash. Stolen property including televisions and electrical equipment was also recovered.

Of concern was the number of children found in properties where drugs were being dealt and used. 26 children were located in 18 properties and a number of referrals were made to CYFs.

Detective Senior Sergeant Lindsay Pilbrow said: “This is not just a one-off operation; the harm caused by illicit drugs remains a key focus for us. On a daily basis we continue to look for opportunities to drive this sort of criminal activity out of our communities.

“It’s sad and unacceptable that children, through no choice of their own, are growing up in these unhealthy and often dangerous environments. It’s not the start to life that children deserve and it motivates us to keep the pressure on.”

Community information continues to be a crucial and valuable factor in the success of these operations and Bay of Plenty Police wishes to thank everyone who has taken a stand against drugs by making a call.

If you have information about any drug activity you should contact your local police. Information can also be provided anonymously to the organisation Crimestoppers on 0800 555111

Area breakdown of search warrants

Rotorua
44 search warrants executed

45 arrests

Western Bay of Plenty

25 search warrants executed

20 arrests

Eastern Bay of Plenty

27 search warrants executed

38 arrests

Taupo

38 search warrants executed

23 arrests

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