Police and Customs have seized a large amount of illegal drugs, $500,000 in cash, and $4 million in assets from a drug smuggling group in south-east Auckland. This operation, called Operation Havana, started two years ago and focused on the group’s method of importing drugs using the postal system.
Recently, 17 search warrants were executed in the city, resulting in 12 arrests. The drugs seized included 183.5 kilograms of methamphetamine, 29 litres of liquid meth, 35.8 kilograms of pseudoephedrine, and 16.7 kilograms of MDMA. Other drugs found were 2 kilograms of cocaine, 350 grams of meth, and 4 kilograms of ephedrine.
Detective Inspector Tom Gollan explained that the group was using a “scattergun” method, sending many smaller packages instead of one large shipment. Most of the drugs were sent to addresses in the Flat Bush area.
Nine men aged 34 to 54 and three women aged 36 to 38 were arrested and have been charged with serious offenses, including importing controlled drugs and being part of a criminal group. They all appeared in Auckland District Court.
The investigation also involved cooperation with law enforcement in the United States, helping to identify and take action against overseas suppliers. Gollan noted that this operation significantly disrupts the drug supply both in New Zealand and the USA.
Customs investigations manager Dominic Adams praised the teamwork between local and international agencies in fighting drug trafficking. He mentioned that criminals often try to hide smaller amounts of drugs in many packages, which makes it harder to detect.
The operation is ongoing, and police may make more arrests in the future. Overall, this seizure prevents an estimated $203 million in social harm.
