Search warrants in Waimate result in number of arrests

Canterbury Police have executed 18 search warrants at residential addresses in the Waimate area today as part of Operation Catalyst.

Sergeant Michael Van Der Heyden says Operation Catalyst is part of Canterbury Police’s commitment to disrupting the sale and supply of illegal drugs in our communities. “The Operation, which started five months ago, has involved around 40 officers from the Waimate, Christchurch, Timaru and Oamaru areas. This Operation has resulted in the seizure of a number of items including methamphetamine, synthetic cannabis, Ritalin, cannabis plants and a taser.”

“Today’s search warrants involved teams from across the District and a specialised Police Drug Detector Dog and Handler. Police would like to thank the community for their patience while the search warrants were executed” said Sergeant Van Der Heyden.

A total of eight people from the Waimate area have been arrested today.

Three local men aged 19, 22 and 27 years are being held in custody and are due to appear in Timaru District Court tomorrow (14 October 2015).

• The 19 year has been charged with seven charges of supplying methamphetamine, six charges of selling or offering to supply LSD and two charges of supplying a prescription stimulant.

• The 22 year old faces 29 charges related to selling and offering to supply synthetic cannabis.

• The 27 year old has been charge with one charge of supplying methamphetamine and a further two charges of supplying cannabis.
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Two local women aged 38 and 49 years old and three local men aged 22, 23 and 41 have been released on Police bail and summonsed to appear in Timaru District Court on 10 November 2015.

• The 38 year old Waimate woman has been charged with 13 charges of supplying cannabis and two charges of supplying prescription stimulants.

• The 49 year old woman has been charged with one charge of supplying cannabis.

• The 22 yr old man has been charged with three 3 charges of supplying synthetic cannabis.

• The 23 year old man has been charged with three charges of supplying synthetic cannabis and additional charges for the possession of drug utensils, possession of a restricted weapon and possession of an offensive weapon.

• The 41 year old man has been charged with possession of cannabis and cultivation of cannabis

“This Operation has significantly reduced the availability of illegal drugs in Waimate and other areas of Canterbury. Everyone in our communities has a right to be safe and feel safe whether they are at home or at work. Police cannot stop the availability of illegal drugs without the help of the community. By working together we can make a difference and stop the crime and social harm associated with this illegal activity” explains Sergeant Van Der Heyden.

If you, your friend or family member wants assistance with drug addiction contact the Canterbury Police Organised Crime Unit or the Drug and Alcohol Help Line by calling 0800 787 797, emailing ada@adanz.org.nz or visit their website www.adictionshelp.org.nz

ENDS

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