Nine people have been arrested in connection with a major drug syndicate operating in Northland.
Police said the four-day Operation Nortiate involved more than 150 staff and searches at nine properties, including in Wheki Valley, Hukerenui, Helena Bay, Raumanga and Puwera.
They recovered $60,000 worth of stolen property, plus heroin, cannabis and methamphetamine. They also took seven guns - two now illegal under recent changes to firearm legislation - and two Tasers.
Three women and six men were arrested, ranging in age from 28 to 62.
"The drugs we located cause immeasurable harm to our communities, and families suffer as a result," said Det Insp Rhys Johnston.
"We are pleased to have severely disrupted this criminal group. We are sending a message to those who choose to engage in these activities that they will be caught and held accountable."
Police say further arrests may follow.
Newshub.
