Six people were arrested after Queenstown police executed several search warrants during a drug bust on Wednesday morning.
The officers were investigating the sale and supply of MDMA in the area after detecting high levels of the drug in Queenstown's water supply.
Otago Lakes Central acting area commander Senior Sergeant Paula Enoka said police seized 2400 MDMA pills that had a street value of approximately $125,000, as well as LSD tabs, cannabis, and more than $5000 in cash. The six people were arrested in relation to supplying class A, B, and C drugs.
Wednesday's bust continues from previous Otago Lakes Central Police investigations that target the sale and supply of various drugs in the area.
About 30 police staff were involved in the latest raid, which was directed towards the supply of MDMA in Queenstown.
Police said the arrests on Wednesday included:
- a 24-year-old woman facing two charges of supplying class B drugs, as well as supplying cannabis and possession of cannabis for supply
- a 26-year-old man charged with supplying class A cocaine, supplying class B MDMA, and possession for supply of cannabis
- a 25-year-old woman charged with supplying class A cocaine
- a 28-year-old man charged with supplying class A cocaine
- a 21-year-old man charged with supplying class B MDMA
- a 32-year-old man charged with supplying class A cocaine and offering to supply class A.
Snr Sgt Enoka said several of the drugs seized on Wednesday were tested and results show they were made up of different substances than what they were being sold as.
She said local police are targeting dealers in the area who believe there's "easy money" to be made from selling drugs in the community.
"If you have any information which can help prevent offending and reduce the harm caused by illicit drugs you can report to Police on 105, or provide information anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
"We encourage anyone affected by drug addiction to seek help through the Alcohol and Drug Helpline on 0800 787 797, or free text 8681."
