17 people arrested across Wellington District this morning in year-long undercover operation

Around 150 Police staff from across the Wellington District have been involved in the execution of 25 search warrants this morning, which has seen the arrests of 17 people.

Officer in charge of the Covert Operations Group Detective Inspector Darrin Thomson says a 12 month-long undercover operation dubbed 'Operation Hunter' has culminated in the arrests this morning.

"I believe we have significantly disrupted the criminal fraternity and drug supply chain across the Wellington District, following the execution of these search warrants in Upper Hutt, Wellington, Masterton, Martinborough, Carterton and rural Wairarapa earlier this morning."

Detective Inspector Thomson says the 17 people arrested, many of whom have gang connections, face around 180 charges between them, including dealing Class A, B and C controlled drugs, including methamphetamine, LSD, ecstasy, cannabis oil and prescription medicines Ritalin and Valium.

"As part of Operation Hunter, we have also recovered $100,000 worth of cash, as well as recovering six vehicles valued at around $150,000.

He says 'Operation Morph' carried out in April of this year, was also part of 'Operation Hunter' and saw the arrests of eight people on more than 35 serious charges.

"Today's arrests symbolise the Police commitment to stamping out organised crime and illegal drug activity across this District. We will continue to take a zero-tolerance approach to ensure our communities are protected from the harm and destruction it causes."

The 17 men arrested range in range from 20 years to 58 years. They will be appearing in the Masterton, Upper Hutt and Wellington District Courts later today. Further arrests are pending.

The 150 Police involved in 'Operation Hunter' include staff from CIB, general duties branch (GDB), Wellington District Dog Section and Armed Offenders Squad (AOS).

© Scoop Media