Police performing routine breath testing in East Auckland last night bagged a whole lot more than expected.

Just after 6.30pm, officers signalled for a driver to slow down to be breath tested at a checkpoint on Dawson Road.

Counties Manukau East Area Prevention Manager, Inspector Rakana Cook, says Police immediately noticed a strong smell of cannabis coming from the vehicle.

“Officers invoked a search of the vehicle and located a substantial amount of cannabis in the footwell of the passenger side of the car.

“A total of nine large zip lock bags with more than 4kgs of cannabis were found inside a large rubbish bag.

“Subsequently, the driver also recorded a breath alcohol level of 600 micrograms per litre of breath, more than twice the legal limit,” Inspector Cook says.

“This was a great find and it’s pleasing to remove these drugs out of our community.”

Police continue to remind people that if you are drinking, do not drive, Police will be out in force anywhere – anytime.

A 45-year-old man will appear in Manukau District Court today charged with driving with excess breath alcohol and possession for supply of cannabis.

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