Police arrest 11 Killer Beez gang members in months-long operation

Two gang members were arrested in Blenheim today, one as they allegedly completed a drug deal in a public car park.

The man, from the Killer Beez gang, was found with 56 grams of methamphetamine and a large quantity of cash.

Both gang members will appear in the Blenheim District Court tomorrow.

It comes after police have arrested nine other individuals in what it is calling Operation Bear, filing 67 charges and restraining vehicles, jet skis and more than 100 pairs of branded shoes.

Detective Senior Sergeant Shane Dye, from the Tasman Organised Crime Unit, said police have been working hard to target the distribution of methamphetamine by the Killer Beez in Tasman.

Operation Bear saw the seizure of 1.2kg of methamphetamine, including 1kg seized from a courier as he landed at Nelson Airport from Auckland.

Police also seized $143,000 in cash, small amounts of cocaine, and just over 95kg of cannabis.

Police said over the course of the operation a sawn-off shotgun, 20 rounds of shotgun ammunition, and 11.22 rounds were seized, along with several assets believed by police to be bought using the methamphetamine money.

This includes a 2019 Ford Ranger, 2016 Toyota Highlander, three Harley Davidson motorbikes, two Seadoo jet skis, a Ranco aluminium fishing boat, jewellery and 136 pairs of Nike and Timberland shoes.

Police said of the 11 people arrested, aged between 27 and 46, three individuals are in gang leadership positions.

"The 11 Killer Beez gang members charged are believed to be the most influential members of the gang in Tasman."

The Killer Beez members hail from the West Coast, Nelson, and Blenheim, and were all actively involved in supplying methamphetamine throughout Tasman District, police said.

Police filed multiple charges, including multiple methamphetamine supply-related charges, possessing cocaine for supply, possessing cocaine, engaging in a money laundering transaction, and participating in an organised criminal group.

Dye said police will now be identifying methamphetamine users in the area to offer assistance.

"This will include referrals to rehabilitation services and facilities to assist with any addiction issues, and ultimately reduce the demand for the drug among the public."