Operation Leo gets claws into gang drug scene

A coordinated Police operation targeting south Auckland organised crime groups has struck at the heart of Auckland’s methamphetamine sale and distribution networks and secured highly-valuable intelligence on the wider drug and gang scene.

Overall, Police executed 45 search warrants during raids in south Auckland and Waikato on 5, 6 and 7 May following a six-month investigation into the supply and distribution of drugs by organised crime groups.

Auckland region and Waikato district Police resources collaborated on the operation, culminating in a crackdown on members or associates of the organised criminal gangs, the Killer Beez and The Tribesmen.

Hundreds of staff were involved in the various phases – from surveillance to termination. Armed Offenders Squad members assisted with executing the warrants, and Hamilton staff were involved in the Waikato district arm of the operation.

An assortment of ammunition, loaded and unloaded rifles and revolvers were recovered during the operation, along with cash, a quantity of methamphetamine, cannabis and drug paraphernalia.

Close to 60 people have now been arrested throughout Auckland and Waikato.

Those arrested have appeared in court facing a range of charges, including supplying the Class A drug methamphetamine; unlawful possession of firearms and possession of explosives (ammunition); conspiracy to supply methamphetamine; and receiving stolen property.

Counties Manukau District CIB head, Detective Inspector John Tims, says the six-month operation has been a huge success to date and should go a long way to dispel some of the untruths about the Killer Beez’ activities.

For example, the notion that the Killer Beez is a youth gang has been proven untrue, with those arrested aged in their 20s, 30s, 40s and 50s.

A number of assets, including cars and motorcycles, have been seized by the Proceeds of Crime Unit as part of Operation Leo. Inland Revenue Department investigators also assisted with this aspect of the operation.

Overall, more than $500,000 worth of methamphetamine and $200,000 of cash was recovered

One search warrant was executed at the business premises of Colourway Records in Ötara.

John says the evidence collected shows those who have previously attempted to achieve status through music, videos and contact with youth are simply drug dealers who cause destruction and chaos in the community.

“I’m proud of the results the team has achieved so far,” he says. “I’m confident they’ve had a significant impact on the sale and distribution of methamphetamine in and around Auckland.”

He described the outcome as “a good day for the New Zealand community” and “a good day for New Zealand Police”.