Police operation in Canterbury targets online sales, four face drugs charges

Methamphetamine and cannabis were seized in the six-month Canterbury police operation targeting online sales of drugs. Photo / File

Four people have been charged with drugs offences, following a six-month police operation codenamed Operation Smoke.

The Canterbury Organised Crime Unit ended the operation, which targeted online drug dealers, this week.

Searches were made, based on three warrants, and police seized a gun, methamphetamine, cannabis and cash.

Detective Brad Greenstreet said the harm of drugs on society could not be underestimated.

"This great work by the organised crime unit has disrupted a significant drug supply network in Canterbury.

"We can expect to see a reduction in the harm caused to our community through drug use and associated crime.

"The fact that this supply network was operating online shows one of the ways drug supply is becoming more sophisticated and as an organisation we must adapt to this.

"We know as society becomes more technology savvy, so do offenders."

As a result of Operation Smoke, two men and two women have been arrested and
charged with offences including dealing in Class A, B and C controlled drugs.

"This operation sends a clear message that police will not tolerate people engaging in drug supply and profiting from the misery caused to our community," Greenstreet said.

"People taking part in this behaviour can expect to be held to account for their actions."