Police and NZDF target cannabis
About 9500 cannabis plants were seized during a recent joint operation between the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) and New Zealand Police.
The three-week operation, supported by a Royal New Zealand Air Force NH90 helicopter, covered areas in the Tasman and Central police districts.
Air Commodore Tim Walshe, the Air Component Commander, said helicopter support for the operation was important because cannabis plants were grown unlawfully in remote areas.
‘‘For years, we have been contributing to police efforts to prevent the social harm caused by the illicit cultivation and supply of cannabis,’’ he said.
Detective Senior Sergeant Scott McGill said continued support from the NZDF had enabled police to sustain their longstanding campaign against the illicit cultivation of cannabis.
‘‘Police will continue to target and disrupt the networks of organised crime groups which continue to profit from the supply and distribution of cannabis,’’ McGill said.
The national crime operation, which included the movement previously known as the national cannabis operation, was concluded right across the Tasman police district with the assistance of the NZDF. A total of 5282 cannabis plants were destroyed in Tasman during this year’s operation, which also focused on other drug and crime matters.
‘‘Police will continue to target and disrupt the networks of organised crime groups.’’ Detective Senior Sergeant Scott McGill