Drugs arrests in Far North after properties searched

Police targeting those in the illegal drug trade in Northland searched three properties and uncovered cash, methamphetamine and cannabis.

The three properties were in the Far North and officers carried out search warrants on Friday with arrests being made and others being referred to the specialist police Methamphetamine Harm Reduction team.

Sergeant Ryan Gray said in Kaitaia officers found $8000 cash at a property and charged a 28-year-old male and a 37-year-old female with possession of methamphetamine for supply.

A 19-year-old was also found with a methamphetamine pipe and he was referred to the Meth Harm reduction team.

Police say they also found some ammunition.

During a search of an Ahipara house police found cannabis seeds and utensils.

Two female aged 29 and 32 were charged and were to appear in the Kaitaia District Court.

A search warrant carried out at an Opononi house saw officers discover methamphetamine as well as cannabis.

A 56-year-old woman faces charges of possession of methamphetamine for supply, possession of cannabis for supply and possession of drug utensils and is appear in Whangarei District Court.

Earlier last week police search a Moerewa home and located $2800 cash and charged a female with possession of methamphetamine for supply.

In September last year the Te Ara Oranga programme was launched.

It is a programme between police and the Northland District Health Board.

The joint venture is trialling an integrated model of police and health activity to reduce methamphetamine demand by enhancing treatment services and increasing responsiveness.

A seven-strong police team are part of the project.

Up until June 2018 the team had made 48 arrests and referred 150 people referrals to treatment.