Christchurch drug raids arrest 15

File photo / Herald on Sunday

Police have closed down a "tinnie" house, arrested 15 people and searched 77 houses in northern Christchurch today as part of a mass crack-down on the drug trade.

The operation, targeting cannabis dealers, began at 8am with 55 police including the armed offenders squad and dog teams taking part. Police said they found four houses where cannabis was being grown, one with video cameras and barricaded doors.

"I believe we have sent a significant message to the criminal fraternity in this area that their continued involvement in illegal activities will not go unchecked," Senior Sergeant Roy Appley said.

"At one address a bank book revealed about $35,000 in an account - which seemed at odds with the person's known lifestyle."

Police also visited houses where they believed there to be a risk of family violence, and drink driving was also targeted.

A man was stopped and found to have a breath alcohol level nearly three times the legal limit, while driving his family to the river for a swim. He had three previous drink driving convictions.

The offending was disturbing to communities and was often linked to more serious criminal activity, Mr Appley said.

Further arrests were likely over the coming weeks as a result of today's inquiries.

- NZPA