INDEPENDENT NEWS

Investigations into alleged illicit drug activities - Paeroa

Published: Tue 18 Feb 2014 05:57 PM
"Police News Alert Issued *** 4.45PM, February 18th (Tuesday) ***"
Waikato Police are continuing their investigations into alleged illicit drug activities following the search of a number of Paeroa properties today.
Crime Services Coordinator, Detective Senior Sergeant Nigel Keall, said officers from across the District, supported by members of the Waikato Armed Offenders Squad (AOS), searched four address of interest this morning.
"The properties visited by Police were all searched in relation to alleged links to the possession and supply of methamphetamine.
"A large amount of cash and what appears to be items linked to the distribution of methamphetamine were recovered however no drugs were found and no arrests have been made. Enquiries are continuing in relation to the location of any drugs and also in terms of identifying the rightful owner of property found at the addresses."
Mr Keall said with the type of risks associated with the manufacture and distribution of illicit drugs, precautions needed to be taken to guarantee the safety of the public and Police officers involved.
"To that end we utilised the support of the AOS to secure the properties to allow entry by our search teams in a safe and timely manner as possible to minimise the impact on the public.
"To often when we conduct searches of properties linked to the illicit drugs trade we encounter illegally held firearms and it has become prudent to utilise these armed staff and their specialist skills manage potentially at-risk situations."
Mr Keall said follow up enquiries would play a major part in the continuing operation.
"The public can do their part to assist as well while these enquiries continue.
"If you see any suspicious behaviour or have information on suspected drug activity, contact your nearest Police Station, your call will be treated in confidence."
ENDS

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