Gangs allegedly targeting single mothers to become meth dealers, as dozens arrested in Northland
Northland gangs are targeting single mothers to become methamphetamine dealers by getting them addicted to the drug, police claim.
It comes as a major methamphetamine investigation has uncovered “seriously concerning” findings, including a loaded gun in a backpack in a child’s bedroom.
Speaking to media today, Detective Superintendent Greg Williams said the operation, titled Operation Phoenix, started in August last year with Auckland-based National Organised Crime Group teams being sent to Northland in week-long segments.
The operation has dismantled an operation allegedly manufacturing and supplying methamphetamine in remote parts of the Far North.
In total, 34 search warrants have been executed in recent days, with 14 people arrested.
“We executed warrants today, so it’s still happening. We’re just finishing now in that sense,” Williams said.
The people arrested allegedly had links to the Tribesman and Head Hunters gangs, he said.
Williams said during the investigation, police allegedly found gangs were getting single mothers addicted to methamphetamine with the intent of turning them into dealers of the drug.
“These people understand that through methamphetamine, they basically entrap and enslave people, and then they get them working for them.”
Methamphetamine manufacturing equipment, firearms, ammunition, drugs and cash were recovered by police.
“[We have recovered] nine firearms so far – including a loaded pistol found in a backpack in a child’s bedroom at one of the main target’s addresses. So it’s kind of seriously concerning to see that occurring.”
He said the men involved are facing a raft of charges related to the manufacture of methamphetamine, supply of methamphetamine, operating as an organised crime group, and other associated firearms offences.
The operation would have a “significant” impact on Kaitāia, as the group targeted was allegedly manufacturing and supplying a large amount of the drug into the area.
However, Williams said that does not mean methamphetamine consumption will drop.
“This is a long-term game, right. This isn’t just about one-off jobs, but this is significant for this group and the impact they’re having.”
Police yesterday executed search warrants across Northland and Auckland as part of the investigation.
The National Organised Crime Group has been leading the investigation with help from Northland Police.
Yesterday’s co-ordinated raids were described as “a large-scale termination”.
Details were scarce while enforcement action was underway.
The ages of the men arrested vary between 27 and 61 years old.
Northland District Commander, Superintendent Matt Srhoj, welcomed the results of the investigation.
“This week’s results have been nearly a year in the making, and I know this will go a long way to making a dent in this operation that has been making profit off our vulnerable communities in the Far North,” he said.
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