Three kilograms of “substances and casings capable of being transformed into pipe bombs” were seized alongside methamphetamine and firearms in a Hutt Valley drug operation, police say.
Two people have been arrested and charged amid the searches and seizures as part of the three-month “Operation Trunk” investigation.
Detective Inspector Darrin Thomson said: “Of real concern is the discovery of three kilogrammes of substances and casings capable of being transformed into pipe bombs.”
He said police were highly concerned by the discovery and were continuing to investigate where the substances came from.
Police also seized four firearms, 3D printed firearm parts, a credit card skimmer, approximately $300,000 cash, a money counter and two kilograms of methamphetamine, following searches of commercial and residential properties.
Two vehicles valued at more than $100,000 were also seized.
Police said the under-examination items may still “result in further charges”.
They added that the “successful” operation targeted the importation and supply of methamphetamine across the Hutt Valley area and disrupted a “significant supply”.
“The mix of methamphetamine and firearms is a lethal cocktail, so I am pleased that police continue to dismantle this cluster of offending,” Thomson said.
“Thorough information gathering, followed by quality analysis, allowed police to undertake a series of search warrants at a commercial and residential property, and has successfully led to the arrest of two people.”
A 44-year-old woman and a 31-year-old man have been charged with possession of methamphetamine for supply and possession of ammunition. The man has also been charged with importing methamphetamine and possession of a firearm.
Both are remanded in custody. The man is set to reappear in Hutt Valley District Court on September 4 and the woman on November 20.
Police said the three-month investigation commenced termination on August 13, “following a series of warrants and arrests over the past few weeks.”
The morning’s headlines in 90 seconds, including manhunt after Australian police fatally shot, how water could help deal with stress, and the price tag for Taylor Swift’s engagement ring. (Source: 1News)
