Two men have been arrested, and firearms, ammunition and drugs have been seized, during a series of search warrants executed in Invercargill and Mataura Island this week.
The warrants were part of Operation Hawk, which targeted illegal hunters and associated criminal activity.
Four warrants were executed, which took three firearms, ammunition, methamphetamine, cannabis and a four-wheel drive vehicle out of criminal hands. Three of the warrants were carried out in Invercargill and one was carried out in Mataura Island.
The operation was supported by detectives from the Southern District Organised Crime Group.
Senior Constable Nicky Herbert says illegal hunting poses serious risks to public safety, property and the environment.
“The presence of firearms and drugs in these contexts significantly escalates the potential for harm,” Senior Constable Herbert says.
“Police remain committed to identifying and holding accountable those who engage in illegal hunting and associated offending. These actions are not only criminal but dangerous, and they will not be tolerated.”
The two men are facing charges of unlawful possession of firearms, reckless discharging of firearms and entering agricultural land with intent to commit a crime.
Further charges are also being considered.
A 24-year-old man is due to appear in Gore District Court on 27 August.
A 28-year-old man is due to reappear in Invercargill District Court on 16 September.
Police continue to urge anyone with information about unlawful hunting or related activity to contact Police on 105, visit their local station, or report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
ENDS
Issued by the Police Media Centre.
