Eight people have been arrested and drugs, firearms and cash seized after police executed 12 search warrants in and around Invercargill.
Operation Diablo targeted organised crime, including gang-related drug offending. It was led by Southland’s organised crime group and criminal investigation branch, and supported by specialist teams including a drug detection dog unit.
More than 32 grams of methamphetamine, various quantities of cannabis, firearms, more than $3000 cash and multiple electronic devices were confiscated after searches at multiple properties and vehicles.
Five men and three women were arrested and have since appeared in the Invercargill District Court on various charges.
These included possession for supply of class A and class drugs, unlawful possession of a firearm and threatening behaviour.
Detective Senior Sergeant Greg Baird emphasised the social harm caused by the sale and supply of drugs.
“Gang members facilitating this don’t care about the damage they cause,” he said.
“People deserve to live, work and play in our communities without these negative influences ruining their plans.”
Investigations were set to continue, with further charges and arrests not ruled out by police.
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