Drugs and guns seized in major police bust

Police say they are concerned about firearms in the drugs trade after a major raid in the Waikato today. Photo / John Stone

Police today sounded an alarm about firearms in the drug trade after a number of guns were seized by Waikato police in a drug operation.

Several people face dozens of charges after an eight-month operation came to a climax yesterday.

"Disturbingly for police we again encountered people in possession of firearms and/or ammunition involved in illegal drug activity," said Detective Sergeant Steve Hudson of Te Kuiti CIB.

"Such activity puts not only the public at risk but police and offenders as well, as officers have to factor in the risk of firearms when planning how to deal with the problem."

A 47-year-old Putaruru man and his 42-year-old partner were arrested after police searched their property, off State Highway 1, yesterday.

"During the search officers discovered an indoor cannabis growing operation and recovered 105 cloned plants of varying maturity," Mr Hudson said.

A small amount of methamphetamine was also found.

"In addition, 27 firearms and a large supply of ammunition were seized," Mr Hudson said.

"The male owner of the property holds a firearms licence and his suitability in terms of retaining his licence will be a focus of follow up inquiries."

There were three pistols and several rifles and shotguns among the weapons seized.

The couple face multiple charges, including possession of cannabis for supply and cultivating cannabis. The woman was released on bail while the man was held in custody and is due to appear in Tokoroa District Court today.

Mr Hudson said yesterday's search followed earlier searches of King Country properties by police on Monday.

Six Otorohanga residents were also arrested, including three members of the same family. They face charges of selling cannabis, possessing cannabis for sale and offering to sell cannabis.

Those arrested include a man charged with possession of cannabis and cannabis oil for sale and the selling of both illicit drug items.

"The man was also charged with illegal possession of ammunition and utensils for the use of methamphetamine and cannabis," Mr Hudson said.

Two Otorohanga women also face drugs charges, both for possession of cannabis for supply, while one also faces charges of selling cannabis and offering the drug for sale.

- NZPA