Cash, meth, firearms seized

A109 Light Utility Helicopter flight with mayor Gisborne City from the air in November 2023.

Police seized $40,000 in cash, 16 grams of methamphetamine and four firearms yesterday in Gisborne and Tauranga as a gangs and organised crime operation continues.

Multiple search warrants were executed in both cities as part of Operation Kotare.

Methamphetamine and cash were found at a Gisborne address.

Four firearms were seized from a Tauranga address.

Three men have been arrested and they face various charges, including possession of the drug for supply and unlawful possession of firearms.

“Methamphetamine causes huge amounts of harm in whanau and in our communities,” Inspector Darren Paki said.

“Gangs are involved in the distribution and supply of meth at every level.

“Illegal firearms are also a commodity that gang members value and use to commit crimes of violence.

“Operation Kotare will continue to reduce the harm that gang members cause through their actions of supplying meth and committing acts of violence.”

Insp Paki said police remained totally committed to preventing gang harm and keeping our communities safer.

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

•