A SUSPECTED drug dealer pointed a loaded gun at an armed police officer's face during a confrontation which a top detective says could have ended in death.
The dramatic incident happened as detectives and the armed offenders squad raided two properties in Whakamarama yesterday and executed search warrants in Waipapa Block Rd.
They found loaded guns, a hi-tech cannabis growing operation, and equipment for the use of manufacturing methamphetamine or "P". Two men facing various charges were due to appear in Tauranga District Court today.
During the raid at the second house police swooped on, a 36-year-old man pointed a loaded 9mm Roger automotive pistol at an armed officer.
Police refuse to say what caused the man to point the gun, at what point he presented it, and the discussion and subsequent clash that ensued, because the case is now before the courts.
But they did reveal that it was pure "luck" no one was killed.
Tauranga CIB head Detective Senior Sergeant Greg Turner told the Bay of Plenty Times it was "extremely lucky" that there was no serious injury, or loss of life.
"The police officer is to be commended for being able to disarm this man without injury, or death," Mr Turner said.
He would not say what rank the officer held, but said all police involved in the raids were "very experienced".
No shots were fired.
Police were understood to have been briefed yesterday at 4.30am, and descended on the Whakamarama properties shortly afterwards.
Firefighters in at least four appliances from Tauranga and Omokoroa, also attended.
On arriving at the first rural property, police uncovered an "extensive and professional" cannabis growing operation but have refused to say where on the property it was located.
A 19-year-old from the Western Bay of Plenty has been charged with cultivating cannabis and possessing a loaded 303 rifle.
At the second property where the gun was presented, a 36-year-old with five children living at the house aged 5 to 18, was charged with cultivating cannabis, possession of a loaded 303 rifle, possession of a 9mm Roger automatic pistol, and pointing a firearm at a police officer.
Further charges are likely to be laid against him in relation to the manufacture of methamphetamine.
Mr Turner said the police clandestine P laboratory team processed "a significant amount" of chemicals and glassware, directly related to the manufacture of P at his home.
Mr Turner said police were "extremely concerned" at the prevalence of firearms in possession of drug dealers and manufacturers, who "show they hold little value for human life".
Their raid yesterday follows on from dozens of stings on drug dealers around the city in recent weeks, including one house in Mount Maunganui that was caught on surveillance camera being visited by more than 1000 people buying drugs in just a fortnight.
Anyone who suspects a cannabis operation has been set up in their area or sees anything suspicious should alert police by phoning 577 4300, or call anonymously and leave a detailed message on 0800 SPEAK UP.
