Wellington Police arrested two men who face more than 20 drug- and firearm-related charges after seizing guns, drugs, cash, gold and cars.[1] A 53-year-old Wellington man was remanded in custody and will reappear in the Wellington District Court on 3 December facing 18 drug-related charges including possession for supply of fantasy, methamphetamine and cannabis, cultivating cannabis and money laundering.[2] A 32-year-old Johnsonville man was remanded on bail and will reappear in the Wellington District Court on 3 December facing charges of unlawful possession of a restricted weapon and possession of methamphetamine.[2]

Officers found the haul during a two-day search of two properties.[2] The haul included cannabis alongside GHL (gamma-hydroxybutyrate), a kilo of methamphetamine in distinctive wrapping worth approximately $105,000, and space vape liquid and packaging.[2] Police also recovered cases of cash estimated to be carrying more than $100,000, gold bars and $50,000 of gold coins, a large recycling bin full of copper, a rifle, a 3D printed firearm and 9 classic cars including a limousine, a Chevrolet Bel Air and a Plymouth Savoy.[2] RNZ reported that police took more than $100,000 in cash, $50,000 in gold coins, two guns, a large recycling bin full of copper and nine classic cars.[3] 1News confirmed the seizure of a rifle, a 3D-printed firearm and nine classic cars including a limousine, a Chevrolet Bel Air and a Plymouth Savoy.[4]

The seizures followed nearly a year’s worth of investigating.[1] Detective Senior Sergeant Lee Underhill said one of the men had been supplying a wide range of illicit drugs from his property for many years, benefitting off the addiction of others.[2] Underhill said police were pleased to have taken these drugs and firearms out of the community and seized millions of dollars’ worth of assets believed to be the profits of his illegal enterprise.[2] Police said further charges were likely.[1]