Drugs and guns seized in organised-crime bust

Southland police have seized drugs, firearms and cash and arrested seven people following a week-long operation in which active offenders and organised crime has been targeted.

Southland Area Commander Inspector Mike Bowman said the arrests were made following the execution of a number of search warrants.

The alleged offenders were now facing a range of charges, he said.

Police had seized three firearms and 49 rounds of ammunition, a quantity of methamphetamine, cannabis, and cash, and four vehicles were impounded.

The arrests follow an ‘‘unsettling’’ few months for Southlanders, with three homicides and other serious crime.

‘‘People have been understandably concerned,’’ Bowman said.

‘‘I hope the results of this week’s operation provide our residents with the assurance that we remain absolutely focused on combating the criminal elements that seek to profit from harming our communities.’’

The holiday season typically resulted in an increase in burglaries and thefts from cars.

‘‘We’ll have a real focus on prevention activities in that space

‘‘We’ll have a real focus on prevention activities in that space over the holiday period.’’ Inspector Mike Bowman

over the holiday period.’’

Police would also have a strong presence on the roads over Christmas and New Year.

He urged motorists to watch their speed and following distances, stay off their phones, wear seatbelts, drive sober and stay alert.

Staff reporter