Drug-case sports star in no rush to come home

One of two celebrities caught up in a major drug case says he has no immediate plans to return to New Zealand and talk to police.

The former sports star has been named in court documents as a joint offender in supplying cocaine and cannabis but has not been charged.

The man was aware he had been implicated in the police operation.

"I've spoken to my lawyer and he has said not to comment. I need to sort out exactly what's going on."

Asked when he would come home, the man said: "Not for a while. I really can't say anything until I've spoken some more to my lawyer."

The second celebrity has been named as a person who was supplied with Ecstasy by the alleged drug-ring leader.

He is also believed to be out of the country.

Six men have been charged with drug offences in connection to the case but four others named in court papers have yet to be charged.

Police said there would be further arrests and the investigation should be completed within a few days.

The alleged ring-leader, a 55-year-old company director who faces 22 charges, returned to court yesterday to seek bail.

After hearing submissions from police and the man's lawyer, Ron Mansfield, Judge Anne Kiernan declined the bail application.

She reminded the media of suppression orders in place for the six accused and the four yet to be charged.

The case has sparked a frenzy of internet speculation about the people involved in the bust.

Entertainment site biggie.co.nz warned members against posting names because it was illegal.

Auckland businessman Aaron Bhatnagar closed down comment on his blogspot after names were published.

A property developer, restaurant manager, self-employed businessman and mechanic were among the people charged on Tuesday.

They are due back in court next month.