Taupo properties searched as part of major police operation

Police car fleet numbers may be reduced by ten per cent to save money, according to a new report. 15 June 2009 New Zealand Herald Photograph by Martin Sykes NZH 16Jun09 - HBT 30Aug10 - PULL OV

Taupo properties are among those being searched across the upper North Island as part of a major police operation targeting the the manufacture and supply of methamphetamine.

More than 30 search warrants were executed across greater Auckland, the Northland, Waikato and Bay of Plenty areas.

Just after 6am, 160 police officers carried out searches at residential and business addresses in areas including Taupo and Oropi in the Bay of Plenty.

Seventeen people have been detained and are now speaking with police.

The majority of these people are expected to appear this afternoon in the Auckland District Court, with other appearances in Kaikohe and Hamilton.

Today's termination was part of a long-running investigation into an organised criminal group alleged to be responsible for a methamphetamine manufacture and supply ring.

Five of the people alleged to be involved are members or associates of the Head Hunters gang.

Specialist groups such as the Police Clan Lab and Asset Recovery Teams were also involved in today's operation.

Two clan labs have been located at residential properties in Oropi, in the Bay of Plenty.