Children found in suspected drug house

Two men and a woman are in custody in Feilding this morning as Police continue their efforts to disrupt the production and distribution of drugs; in particular methamphetamine.

Police in Feilding have been working for some time on public information which has suggested large scale drug dealing between a syndicate of people. It is alleged that a man from Northland has been distributing to drugs dealers across the North Island, and that one of those drug dealers in Feilding has in turn been distributing the drugs across the greater Manawatu.

This culminated in an operation in Feilding yesterday (Monday, 22 November) with a residential address in Ferndale Place being subject to a search warrant. Around 20 officers, including Armed Offenders Squad and dogs were involved in the operation.

Around 5pm a 26-year-old man from Northland, a 23-year-old female associate from Hamilton and a 45-year-old man from Feilding, were arrested.

Over $40,000 was recovered, along with a small number of point bags of methamphetamine, scales and documentation indicative of drug dealing. A large container of white powder was also recovered. At this stage it is unconfirmed whether the powder is methamphetamine or a precursor to manufacturing methamphetamine; forensic testing will be carried out.

Sergeant Phil Gillbanks of Feilding Police said: "What is particularly concerning is that three children of school and pre-school age were also at the address. There are increasing reports in New Zealand of children living lives exposed to toxic chemicals; this type of activity is destroying lives.

"We hope that this latest operation puts a significant dent in the dealing of methamphetamine across the Manawatu, and sends a strong message to others that we will not tolerate this type of offending."

The house in Ferndale Place was secured overnight and will be subject to a detailed search by the Police Specialist Search Group this morning. The three arrested will be interviewed this morning and decisions made regarding charges.

If you have information about drug manufacture or supply, ring your local Police Station. Alternatively information can be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
Media enquiries should be referred to Communications Manager Kim Perks on 027 234 8256.

ENDS

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