Police seize $3 million in assets, nine arrested in organised crime operation in Manawatu

Nine people have been arrested and millions of dollars have been seized by police during a money laundering and drug dealing investigation in the Manawatu.

In the past two days, the arrests were made in Shannon and Palmerston North.

Restraints have been put on five properties, as well as 37 high-performance vehicles and $210,000 in cash. The assets together total about $3 million.

Three firearms, including an AR-15 semi-automatic rifle and a shotgun, have also been recovered by the police.

The nine people aged between 27 42 will appear in the Palmerston North District Court in the coming days.

One 42-year-old man is facing charges of possession of meth and cocaine for supply, participation in an organised group, and money laundering.

"Local officers alongside colleagues from national teams across the country have worked hard over a number of months to gather intelligence and build up a picture of offending that has not been severely disrupted," Detective Inspector Brent Matuku said.

A collection of the cars that were seized.
A collection of the cars that were seized. Photo credit: New Zealand Police

"This is a great example of collaboration between police in districts and in national groups, which will have a significant and positive impact on the welfare of the community.

"The extensive assets generated by a small group through the sale of methamphetamine will have come at a huge cost to those who can least afford it."

Det Snr Sgt Brent Murray, of the Asset Recovery Unit, said people were encouraged to contact police if they had any concerns about suspicious financial activity.

Newshub.