Members of the Armed Offenders Squad took part in raids this morning which saw more than $2 million in methamphetamine seized. File photo / NZ Herald
Police raids on an Iranian crime syndicate operating in Auckland saw three arrests and the seizure of more than $2 million in methamphetamine this morning.
Auckland drug squad and New Zealand Customs ended the two month 'Operation Crow' with the city centre raids at 5:30am.
Search were carried out
on two central Auckland addresses - one by the Armed Offenders Squad.
Nearly 2.4 kgs of methamphetamine were seized in three confiscations, along with a taser disabling device, two cars and $16,000 in cash.
Police said the confiscated drugs would have a street value more than $2 million.
Three people were arrested, including two Iranian nationals who police allege were a part of an organised crime group.
The men, aged aged 31 and 42, who would face charges including importing methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine for supply and participating in an organised crime group, police said.
A 34-year-old man, who police said was an associate of the King Cobra gang, would also face a charge of possession of methamphetamine for supply.
Police minister Judith Collins lauded the operation as a "huge blow" to criminals importing methamphetamine into New Zealand.
"I applaud the Police and all involved for their meticulous work.
"This is a great example of the Police's continued success in targeting organised crime and working hard to keep this harmful drug off our streets."
Police and Customs have seized 20.6 kilograms of methamphetamine before the end of April this year.
That included the seizure of 8kgs of methamphetamine found hidden in the shoes of 10 Malaysian drug couriers as they passed through Auckland Airport.
The bust was the biggest at New Zealand's border.
- HERALD ONLINE STAFF
