Police checkpoint leads to drug bust, two arrested

The seized drugs.
The seized drugs. Photo credit: NZ Police/Supplied

A simple police checkpoint has led to officers seizing four kilograms of cannabis and arresting two people on drug charges.

On Friday officers near Lumsden were stopping cars to check for drink driving, lack of seat belts and other offences. 

When they stopped the car of a 29-year-old man, they noticed a strong smell of marijunana.

Further searches of the vehicle uncovered two chilly bins containing one kilogram of cannabis and $500 in cash. The driver admitted he had purchased the drugs in Gore and was heading home to Te Anau. 

A search of his home revealed more cannabis, drug dealing equipment and more than $2000 in cash. 

Further investigation revealed the 29-year-old had bought the drugs from a 45-year-old in Gore. When his house was searched, officers found another three kilograms of cannabis, several plants and $10,000 in cash - all of which was seized.

Sgt Tod Hollebon said he is pleased with the "excellent teamwork" from police which led to the two arrests.

"I am proud of our local police working together across the borders in Riversdale, Mataura, Gore and Invercargill, which has resulted in two arrests so far."

The two men will appear in the Gore and Invercargill District Courts on drug charges. Police have not ruled out further charges.