A Taupō gang president has had more than $1 million worth of assets seized including his Harley Davidson, lifestyle property and almost $200,000.
Midlands Rebels gang president James Duff was sentenced to 15 years in prison last year for playing a leading role in a drug distribution ring.
Detective Senior Sergeant Keith Kay, of the Waikato/ Bay of Plenty asset recovery unit, said police had successfully forfeited a significant number of assets from the Taupō-based president.
Duff was convicted of 31 charges including the supply of methamphetamine, ecstasy, cannabis and LSD, unlawful possession of a firearm, perverting the course of justice and participation in an organised criminal group.
The criminal activity Duff participated in was valued at $1,115,715, while the assets have a total value of $1.2m, according to Kay.
The assets police seized included a 6.3-hectare lifestyle property in Wairakei, Taupo, a 2007 Holden Commodore Clubsport, a 2013 Ford Ranger utility, a Continental Chevrolet Impala, four Harley Davidson motorcycles, a Yamaha Waverunner Supercharged jet ski and trailer, more than $190,000 from his bank accounts and three pieces of jewellery valued at nearly $35,000.
"The money and sale of these items will be put into the Proceeds of Crime Fund, from which agencies can make applications to fund crime prevention as well as drug and alcohol rehabilitation initiatives," Kay said.
The Criminal Proceeds (Recovery) Act began in 2009 so police could pursue assets and hold people to account so they do not benefit from proceeds of crime.
"In this case, the significant supply of drugs to our communities often causing irreparable harm to individuals and their families," Kay said.
"Organised crime is all about money, and Police are focused on targeting the proceeds of that crime."
Kay said the asset recovery unit is focused on targeting people who think they will profit from crime and cause harm and destruction in our communities.
Police are asking the public for help to identify illicit proceeds obtained from crime.
"If anyone has any information which would assist Police they are encouraged to report that information in confidence either to their local Police station or via Crime Stoppers 0800 555 111."
