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Wednesday, July 3, 2024
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Meth crackdown

Two more arrests have been made as Operation Frozen puts the squeeze on a Wairarapa meth distribution ring involving Head Hunters gang members.

A 26-year-old man and 27-year-old woman from Masterton have been charged with offences relating to the sale and distribution of methamphetamine, police said.

They, and a 42-year-old woman, will appear in Masterton District Court this week.

A 26-year-old Hutt Valley man has also been arrested.

Police say those charged have links to the Head Hunters gang.

These arrests follow an initial three arrests in Wairarapa at the start of the month.

Wairarapa police are working with the National Organised Crime Group to expose the meth distribution ring in Wairarapa, and have dubbed the investigation ‘Operation Frozen’.

Police say the meth distribution network extended beyond Wairarapa and the operation to expose it remained ongoing.

Detective Senior Sergeant Barry Bysouth said police would continue to track down meth dealers in Wairarapa.

“I anticipate further arrests to follow, and encourage the community to come forward and work with us against this highly addictive and life-ruining drug,” he said.

“Telling police who is pushing this drug out to your friends and family either anonymously through Crimestoppers or reporting to police directly is not narking.

“It is helping to protect our community.

“It is all of our responsibly to work together to prevent further harm.

“Crimestoppers is a truly anonymous reporting line so please pick up the phone and make a difference.”

Mr Bysouth said he would encourage anyone who is either struggling with methamphetamine themselves, or who knows someone who is, to seek help.

“You can approach police direct, or contact Te Hauora Runanga O Wairarapa, or Pathways Wairarapa,” he said.

“They will be happy to help you — but you need to take this first step by reaching out and acknowledging you need help.”

“For anonymous help, you can also call the alcohol and drug helpline on 0800 787 797.”

Emily Ireland
Emily Ireland
Emily Ireland is Wairarapa’s Local Democracy Reporter, a Public Interest Journalism role funded through NZ On Air. Emily has worked at the Wairarapa Times-Age for seven years and has a keen interest in council decision-making and transparency.

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