4 Singaporeans nabbed in New Zealand in drug bust

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GISBORNE (New Zealand) • Four Singaporeans have been arrested and charged in New Zealand following a massive international methamphetamine drug bust, media reports said.

The four Singapore nationals are charged with importing 700g of methamphetamine which police say was destined for the Gisborne and East Coast market, the New Zealand Herald reported yesterday.

They were among 41 people arrested in a raid on 37 properties in Gisborne and Roturua - both districts on the North Island - last week after an eight-month investigation, Radio New Zealand said, but police had only just released details.

The 41 suspects collectively face 245 charges of importing a Class A drug, conspiracy to sell, selling and possession of methamphetamine - also known as Ice - for supply and cannabis dealing, the paper said. They had appeared in the Gisborne and Auckland district courts over the past nine days, the reports said.

Those arrested included members of the Black Power and Mongrel Mob gangs and several others with strong family ties to the gangs, the reports added.

A number of children have been referred to government agencies following the raids, during which police also seized eight properties, several bank accounts and vehicles.

They also seized 400g of methamphetamine along with firearms, cash and cannabis.

The total haul was estimated to be worth NZ$3.8 million (S$4.5 million).

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on April 14, 2016, with the headline 4 Singaporeans nabbed in New Zealand in drug bust. Subscribe