A major New Zealand police investigation has uncovered what authorities say was a nationwide drug importation and distribution network operating through the dark web.
The nine-month investigation – known as Operation Solana and led by the National Organised Crime Group – focused on the alleged importation and supply of methamphetamine, cocaine, MDMA and ketamine.
Police executed 16 search warrants across Auckland and Hamilton on Thursday and Friday, arresting 11 people.
Significant quantities of drugs were seized, along with about $500,000 in cash and three firearms, including a 3D-printed gun.
Police allege the group used dark web marketplaces, encrypted messaging applications and cryptocurrency services to hide their identities and financial transactions.
Detective Senior Sergeant Jason Hunt said the investigation began after inquiries identified a local syndicate using anonymous online marketplaces to carry out illegal actives.
"We have established this group allegedly imported and distributed these controlled drugs across the country," he said.
Police said the drugs were sent to New Zealand from the UK, Europe and the US.
New Zealand Customs and overseas law enforcement agencies, including the US, Europe and the Australian Border Force, seized more than 200kg of controlled drugs destined for the syndicate at international borders.
Further quantities of methamphetamine, cocaine, MDMA, ketamine were also seized during the search warrants.
The 11 arrested, aged between 24 and 42, were due to appear in the Auckland District and Hamilton District courts today.
They faced charges including importation, possession and supplying class A, B and C controlled drugs, unlawful possession of firearms and participating in an organised criminal group.
Hunt said Operation Solana showed police were increasing their ability to detect and disrupt offending in online and encrypted environments.
"Offending on the dark web is not invisible," Hunt said.
"These arrests send a clear message: If you are importing or dealing drugs through the dark web, we will find you, and we will hold you to account."
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