Approximately 300g of methamphetamine was seized by police. Photo: Supplied/police
Police believe they have made a significant dent in drug offending in Rotorua after the arrest of 13 people in Rotorua, Tokoroa and Te Puke over the last three weeks.
In a statement police said they had undertaken a significant investigation into the sale and supply of methamphetamine by an organised criminal group in Rotorua.
Items seized by police included $50,000 cash. Photo: Supplied/police
Along with the 13 arrests, approximately 300g of methamphetamine, two tasers and three firearms were seized.
Approximately $50,000 cash, electronics and stolen trailers were also found at the properties.
The 13, which included several patched gang members, were now appearing before the court on a range of charges, including possession of methamphetamine for supply, supplying methamphetamine and participating in an organised crime group.
Police also seized several vehicles including a Harley Davidson, a Holden Commodore and a Ford Ranger and will allege through the courts that they were purchased with the profits from criminal activity.
Police arrested 13 people in Rotorua, Tokoroa and Te Puke over the last three weeks. Photo: Supplied/police
Detective sergeant Leonie Smith said the seizures and arrests would make a significant dent to drug offending in the city.
"We know the harm methamphetamine does in our community and our team has worked tirelessly to gather a significant amount of evidence ahead of terminating.
"This demonstrates the commitment to hold people to account by putting them before the courts and ensuring they are stripped of assets bought with their criminal profits," Smith said.