Meth bust in Hawke's Bay

Hawke's Bay Police have made another seizure of methamphetamine just days after half a kilo was found in a vehicle on the outskirts of Napier.

Police yesterday arrested a 45-year-old Napier man in the Napier Warehouse carpark after the termination of a drug operation by the Eastern Police Organised Crime Unit.

The man's car was searched and police found close to half a kilo of the drug, as well as a sawn-off shotgun and cash.

The arrest was not connected to an operation at the weekend where half a kilo of methamphetamine was found after a car was stopped on the Napier-Taupo Rd in a combined operation with Central District police.

The man arrested yesterday was wanted on warrant on other matters.

He is now facing charges of possession of methamphetamine for supply.

He was due to appear in the Napier District Court today.

Eastern Field Crime Manager Inspector Mike Foster said yesterday's seizure, along with Saturday's bust, meant over a kilo of methaphetamine destined for Hawke's Bay was now taken off the street.

"Hawke's Bay is not immune to major drug activity and both these seizures reflect a growing trend of illicit drugs being brought into the district for distribution.

This sort of activity is having a huge impact on our communities - especially the vulnerable - and police are working extremely hard to try to stop the flow of drugs into the area," Mr Foster said.

"It's hugely important that the community work with us to stamp out this activity and keep our people safe."

Mr Foster said the amount of harm methamphetamine caused to communities was "astronomical".

"While it may be acceptable in some circles, the reality is that people are developing major drug habits that are leading to a huge increase in lesser crimes like burglary and theft.

People are stealing items and committing other crime to pay for their drug habits.

It's a never-ending circle," he said.

Police were also encouraging the public to come forward with information about drug activity in their area.

If anyone sees anything suspicious in their neighbourhood that could be linked to drugs, they could either call their local station or information could be left anonymously on Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.

People should not be afraid to contact police and confidentiality is assured by using the Crimestoppers number.

ENDS

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