Drug bust includes pregnant woman and children

Police allege drug deals were arranged while she had some time earlier been in hospital awaiting the birth of her child. Photo / Martin Sykes

A pregnant woman was dealing drugs while awaiting the birth of her child in hospital, Waikato police allege.

The woman's offences came to light during a week-long drugs crack-down resulting in 12 arrests.

One of the arrests included a woman who was charged with possession for supply and supplying methamphetamine.

Police allege drug deals were arranged while she had some time earlier been in hospital awaiting the birth of her child.

Detective Senior Sergeant Nigel Keall said police were particularly concerned to find children present at some of the addresses being used to supply drugs.

Seventeen search warrants were executed and Mr Keall said more arrests were likely.

"We are continuing to crack down on drug dealing houses and the criminals who run them.

"This operation was a planned response to information received from and concerns expressed by the local community."

The armed offenders squad assisted in the arrest a 37-year-old Nawton (west Hamilton) man whose methamphetamine laboratory was found in a vehicle near Cambridge.

Those arrested are facing a range of charges including possession for supplying methamphetamine and cannabis, manufacturing methamphetamine and cannabis and receiving stolen property.

Three referrals have been made to Child, Youth and Family.

- NZPA