Four charged after meth lab, guns found in raids

Four people have been charged after Police locate methamphetamine, clan lab equipment and firearms in searches at properties in Mangawhai Heads, Massey, and Kumeu yesterday.

Waitematā Police, including the Armed Offenders Squad, executed two warrants simultaneously in Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai Heads and Birdwood Road, Massey during the early hours of Tuesday 14 October.

During the search at Mangawhai Heads, Police located two kilograms of ephedrine, along with ingredients and equipment used for manufacturing methamphetamine. Two people were arrested.

Enquiries at the Massey location led Police to a third location in Kumeu, where Police found equipment sufficient for a clan lab, as well as a loaded double-barrel shotgun, a loaded glock, and an unloaded rifle.

Following the Kumeu warrant, several people were detained nearby. Two of these people face charges.

Detective Sergeant Ray Fa’aofo says yesterday’s outcome was great, thanks to staff involved.

“The planning, preparation, and quick actions of staff is what ensured the success of these warrants being executed.

“I am very pleased that we were able to intercept the some of the production and supply of illicit drugs entering our community, as well as take some firearms off the streets.

“The amount of social harm this could have caused, had it not been intercepted, would be astronomical and I’m glad these offenders can now be held to account,” he says.

Details of the charges faced by those arrested are:

• A 41-year-old man is due to appear in Auckland District Court on 12 December with multiple charges of possessing equipment with intent to manufacture, unlawfully possessing firearms, possession of equipment to cultivate cannabis, and possession of equipment for cultivating cannabis.
• A 46-year-old man is due in North Shore District Court on 15 October charged with manufacturing methamphetamine, and two counts of possessing equipment with intent to manufacture.
• A 32-year-old man is due in Waitakere District Court on 15 October charged with possessing methamphetamine for supply.
• A 45-year-old woman is due to appear in North Shore District Court on 15 October charged with manufacturing methamphetamine.

Police urge the public to report any and all crimes immediately by calling 111 if it is happening now, or 105 if it is after the fact.

You can also make a report anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.