Seven men across the upper North Island have been charged following Operation Gallium, an investigation into a group manufacturing methamphetamine in rural "rugged" locations.
The men, aged between 33 and 57, are before the courts after police seized 19.32kg of methamphetamine and a number of precursor chemicals and equipment associated with commercial-scale methamphetamine manufacture.
In a statement, a police spokesperson said the methamphetamine seized had an estimated street value of $6.7 million and "could have contributed more than $21 million in social harm".
Other class A and B controlled drugs including LSD and GBL were found, along with a firearm and a large quantity of cash.
"A number of high-value vehicles have also been seized. In total 19 vehicles, five motorcycles, two boats, two jet skis, and a caravan have been seized during the course of this investigation," the spokesperson said.
The spokesperson said police are grateful for the air support from the New Zealand Defence Force.
"That enabled the operation's success in the remote, rugged Whanganui River area."
Detective Inspector Albie Alexander said the methamphetamine bust is "significant" for the Central Region.
"The work targets those who illegally accumulate assets and wealth through the sale and manufacture of illegal drugs."
The men before the courts are:
- Three men, aged 47, 55 and 57, have been remanded in custody to reappear in Whanganui District Court on May 30, 2023.
- A 33-year-old man has a warrant issued for his arrest by Hamilton District Court.
- A 41-year-old man is due to appear in Manukau District Court on March 24.
- A 50-year-old man is due to reappear in the Hamilton District Court on May 5, 2023.
- A 57-year-old man is due to appear in Manukau District Court on March 15, 2023.
Police added Operation Gallium is still ongoing and did not rule out further arrests.
