Police bugged house in drugs inquiry

Police bugged a Hamilton home at the centre of an alleged drug ring around the clock, the High Court at Hamilton was told yesterday.

Constable Mark Bartram gave evidence explaining how he taped conversations at the house.

Hundreds of intercepted conversations and text messages form the body of the argument against 13 accused who collectively face more than 100 drug-related charges.

Prosecutors say the house was the centre of a Waikato and Auckland drug organisation.

The accused, nine men and four women, face 117 drug-related charges involving conspiracy to manufacture and supply methamphetamine, heroin and morphine sulphate, and possession of guns and ammunition. They have all pleaded not guilty.

- NZPA