Police storm Christchurch properties in drug crackdown

A number of Christchurch properties have been raided by police in a suspected drug crackdown today.

Armed police bashed in doors at a number of commercial and residential properties in Aranui, Linwood, and the southwest of the city.

Officers arriving in both marked and unmarked cars stormed a nondescript commercial unit at Print Place in Middleton at around 9.30am.

They smashed in the glass front door before securing the premises.

Officers in boiler suits and gloves proceeded to empty the building of boxes, and items secured in clear plastic bags.

Its windows were opened wide, leading to locals suggesting that it had been used for the manufacture of drugs.

Police said a number of search warrants were carried out across Christchurch this morning "as part of an ongoing operation".

"Members of the public may notice an increased police presence to secure the scene at some of the locations," said detective sergeant Richard Quested.

Since investigations are ongoing, he could not comment further as it "may affect our ongoing inquiries".

Further updates are expected from police later today.