Two men have been arrested and face more than 20 drug and firearm related charges following a huge haul of guns, drugs, cash, gold and cars by Wellington Police.
Following a two-day search of two properties, a huge haul was discovered. It included GHL (gamma-hydroxybutyrate), cannabis, a kilo of methamphetamine in distinctive wrapping worth approximately $105,000, and space vape liquid and packaging.
Cases of cash estimated to be carrying more than $100,000, gold bars and $50,000 of gold coins, a large recycling bin full of copper, a rifle, a 3D printed firearm and 9 classics cars including a limousine, a Chevrolet Bel Air and a Plymouth Savoy were also recovered by Police.
The seizures follow nearly a year's worth of investigating.
Detective Senior Seargeant Lee Underhill says the seizure represents a big blow to the Wellington drug trade.
"One of the men has been supplying a wide range of illicit drugs from his property for many years, benefitting off the addiction of others," she says.
"It may have been a long time coming, but we are pleased to have taken these drugs and firearms out of the community, as well as seizing millions of dollars' worth of assets that I believe are the profits from his illegal enterprise.
"Police are seeing an increase in the possession of 3D printed firearms which present a danger in our communities as well as to those who use them. This is just one indicator of the danger that these criminals pose and we will continue to focus our efforts on cracking down on their trade."
"The view from the top of the hill might have been worth a million dollars, but the cost of alleged criminal activity could prove considerably higher."
Detective Sergeant Sam Buckley of the Police Central Asset Recovery Unit says Police have noticed an increase in criminals attempting to hide proceeds of their offending in a wider variety of forms, including through the purchase of virtual assets, shares and precious metals.
"This is in addition to the more common methods of investing, through the purchase of vehicles and property. Asset Recovery Units will continue to cast their net wide, with a view to locating and seizing all types of criminal proceeds, no matter what form they take."
A 53-year-old Wellington man has been remanded in custody and will reappear in the Wellington District Court on 3 December facing 18 drug related charges including possession for supply of fantasy, methamphetamine and cannabis, cultivating cannabis and money laundering.
A 32-year-old Johnsonville man has been remanded on bail and will reappear in the Wellington District Court on 3 December facing charges of unlawful possession of a restricted weapon, and possession of methamphetamine.
Further charges are likely.
