Two Vietnamese nationals arrested in an Auckland cannabis bust yesterday are believed to be part of an organised crime syndicate, police said.
Three people were arrested yesterday as part of an investigation targeting an “opportunist profit-driven business” across Auckland, Wellington and Marlborough.
A local Picton man was arrested after being found with a suitcase full of vacuum-packed cannabis packages as he walked off the Interislander in Picton yesterday.
A search of his house found $12,000 in cash, a BB gun resembling a Glock pistol, and a small amount of MDMA.
Two Vietnamese nationals were subsequently arrested after they delivered a suitcase of cannabis to Wellington, police said.
The pair appeared in the Auckland District Court today, and their bail was opposed. The Picton man also appeared in the Blenheim District Court today, facing a charge of possession of cannabis for supply. All three men were in their 20s.
Detective Senior Sergeant Shane Dye said the Vietnamese duo were believed were part of an of an organised crime syndicate. One of them was in New Zealand illegally.
“We believe that these Vietnamese men are working with others cultivating and dealing cannabis in Auckland rental properties,” Dye said.
“This type of activity is linked to organised crime groups and cannabis is a large source of income for their illegal operations.”
In October last year, police announced 11 Vietnamese nationals had been deported and cannabis valued at $18 million destroyed after an organised crime group was broken up across Auckland.
Dye said organised groups “significantly modify” properties used for growing operations “often with risky electrical installations”.
“This type of activity is dangerous and creates a significant fire risk. Often electricity is being stolen to run these grow operations.”
Police reminded landlords to remain vigilant when renting out their properties.
They also advised regular property inspections, thorough vetting, and for the community to remain vigilant.
“If you see suspicious activity, such as large deliveries of fertiliser bags being dropped off without any corresponding gardening occurring, or signs that an electricity meter has been tampered with, please contact police,” police said.
Anyone with information was asked to call 105.