Eight arrested after BZP drug bust

File photo / NZH

Eight people have been arrested after a large police bust of a Christchurch retailer allegedly selling the banned Class C drug BZP disguised as a legal herbal product.

Police found thousands of capsules believed to contain BZP (benzylpiperazine), as well as stolen property which may have been traded for the supply of the drug, Detective Sergeant Chris Roberts said.

About 50 police officers executed 10 search warrants for a central Christchurch retail shop, three lock-up storage units and several dwellings.

Eight people face various drug possession and supply charges and will appear in the Christchurch District Court over the next few days.

- NZPA