Detective Inspector Bridget Doell, Whangārei CIB:

Police have arrested three people with gang associations and seized drugs and ammunition as Operation Cobalt commences in Northland.

Police executed search warrants at four Dargaville properties on Tuesday, 5 July.

As a result cannabis, methamphetamine and illegal ammunition was seized.

A 41-year-old man and a 24-year-old female were arrested and face methamphetamine-related charges.

A 39-year-old man was also arrested and has been charged with unlawful possession of ammunition.

All three are scheduled to appear in the Whangārei District Court on Wednesday 6 July.

Police continue to step up enforcement and the disruption of unlawful gang activity across the country as Operation Cobalt rolls out.

Our message to those involved is clear — we have zero tolerance for any violence, gang and drug activities.

Police are working hard to ensure we keep our communities safe, and we will continue to actively target those involved in criminal activity

We welcome information from anyone who has concerns about organised crime, gang activity or the illegal possession of firearms.

They are encouraged to report online at 105.police.govt.nz, call Police on 105, or report anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

If it is happening now, please call 111.

© Scoop Media