Three Auckland men added to large arrest list for Operation Bellgrove

A quantity of synthetic cannabis has been seized by police following search warrants in Avondale.

Three Auckland men have been arrested and a quantity of synthetic cannabis seized during police raids in Avondale this week.

The arrests follow 12 others that were made in April and July as part of Operation Bellgrove.

The operation is a long-running police investigation into illegal drugs, including the sale and distribution of synthetic cannabis, from properties in Avondale and New Lynn.

This morning, a 43-year-old Avondale man was arrested and charged with possession of synthetic cannabis for supply.

Police also seized a quantity of synthetic cannabis during the arrest.

Two 46-year-old Avondale men, one of whom is a patched Head Hunter gang member, were also arrested and charged with the possession of cannabis.

Two of the men appeared in the Auckland District Court today, with the third expected to appear in court tomorrow.

Detective Sergeant Richard Sami says further charges are likely to be laid as a result of the operation.

"We will continue to investigate and arrest anyone found to be making or supplying synthetic cannabis or other illegal products.

"As we know, synthetic cannabis is a dangerous substance and we are determined to find those responsible for making this drug and hold them to account."

In earlier searches at Avondale properties in April, police reported seizing synthetic cannabis, cannabis, cash, a shotgun and ammunition.

At one home, bags of the illicit drug were found in the roof cavity.

Five men and two women faced a raft of charges relating to the raids. Those charged ranged in age from 44 to 18.

Avondale Police area commander Inspector Jacqui Whittaker said at the time, "Our investigations into alleged drug dealing from this area have been ongoing for some time.

"This is a good community and they should not have to tolerate this type of behaviour.

"We are committed to ensuring that everyone in this area is safe and feels safe and that the kids living here have a happy and positive neighbourhood."

Police advise any member of the public that knows of someone manufacturing or supplying synthetic cannabis to contact their local police station or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.