Police operation reveals rival Wellington gangs working together to supply methamphetamine

A Tribesman gang member, a Highway 61 associate and a Mongrel Mob associate have been arrested following a year long drug investigation into the methamphetamine trade in the Wellington region.

Detective Senior Sergeant Chris Moore from the Organised Financial Crime Agency of New Zealand (OFCANZ) says in total seven people were arrested this morning during the termination of Operation Fantail.

“This morning Police executed 16 search warrants in Wellington City, Auckland City, Porirua and Masterton,” Mr Moore said. “This was the culmination of a year long operation involving staff from OFCANZ, Wellington District and specialist tactical groups.”

Mr Moore said a patched Tribesman member, a Mongrel Mob associate and a Highway 61 associate were among those arrested.

“The termination of Operation Fantail shows that rival gang members are actively co-operating in the sale and supply of methamphetamine within the Wellington District and lower North Island.”

“During Operation Fantail we have recovered 150 grams of methamphetamine with an estimated street value of up to $150,000.”

In addition cash and assets with a value of up to $50,000 have been seized and will be restrained. This includes a Chevrolet corvette car, a Harley Davidson motorcycle, and a Toyota Altezza.

“Operation Fantail sends another powerful message to the criminal community that Police will use every legal avenue at our disposal to target organised crime in New Zealand,” Mr Moore said.

The seven suspects arrested this morning are due to appear in the Wellington, Masterton and Auckland District Courts this week.

ENDS

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