Police and the Air Force are currently searching for a boat believed to be carrying 700kg of methamphetamine off Northland’s east coast and have “serious concern” for its occupants.
It comes after 10 people were charged with conspiracy to import a class A drug and participating in a criminal organised group earlier this week.
The search and charges were part of what police have dubbed “Operation Fantail”, an investigation targeting a transnational organised crime group believed to be facilitating the importation of 700kg of methamphetamine by sea.
Earlier this week, 10 people from Northland and Auckland were charged and have since appeared in court. Nine were remanded in custody, while one person is on bail ahead of further appearances “in the coming months”.
Investigators alleged that separate shore parties failed to rendezvous with the “small craft” off the coast of Northland on two consecutive days.
After the second shore party failed to rendezvous with the craft, police said it became evident “there was some serious concern for the small boat and its occupants”.
“Efforts are ongoing to locate the vessel.”
Police are being supported by the Royal New Zealand Air Force.
Police also carried out 12 searches as part of its investigation.
Around $130,000 in cash was found, alongside two rifles, four handheld GPS units, two satellite phones, and a “small quantity” of class C controlled drugs. A number of cell phones were also seized.
“Inquiries are continuing, and Police cannot rule out further charges regarding the activities of the persons arrested,” Detective Superintendent Greg Williams said.
