Crime syndicate short-circuited by Police

13 Nov 2026

Released by New Zealand Police

MediaRelease.co Summary

Waitematā Police say they have disrupted a crime group in northern Auckland, locating firearms, ammunition, drugs and a clandestine methamphetamine laboratory, with lab equipment found during search warrants at two Warkworth properties. A 49-year-old woman has been remanded in custody on charges including manufacturing methamphetamine, while a 48-year-old man faces charges including possession for supply. Both are due in North Shore District Court.

Original release

Police have disrupted a significant crime circuit operating in northern parts of Auckland, with firearms, ammunition, drugs and a clan lab located.

Two people are now before the courts facing serious charges, following an ongoing investigation into the manufacture and supply of methamphetamine.

Detective Senior Sergeant Josh Lautogo, of Waitematā CIB, says Police executed two search warrants at Warkworth properties last week where equipment associated with a clandestine drug laboratory.

“Despite challenging terrain and extensive search requirements, the team secured a substantial amount of evidential material and dismantled a significant risk to the community.

“One person was taken into custody at the address and is now facing eight charges.”

Detective Senior Sergeant Lautogo says the investigation has been ongoing, with a second person was arrested this morning.

“This result reflects our continued focus on disrupting organised crime groups involved in the manufacture and supply of methamphetamine.”

A 49-year-old woman has been remanded in custody facing charges including possessing equipment, material with intent, produce/manufacture methamphetamine, unlawful possession of ammunition and possession for supply of methamphetamine.

She will appear in North Shore District Court on 5 May 2027.

A 48-year-old man has been charged with possession of an offensive weapon, possession for supply of methamphetamine and three counts of driving while disqualified and will appear in North Shore District Court today.

ENDS.

Holly McKay/NZ Police

Key details

Issued by
New Zealand Police
Published
13 Nov 2026
Publisher country
New Zealand

Source: https://www.police.govt.nz/news/release/crime-syndicate-short-circuited-police

MediaRelease.co ID: mr02916 · Markdown

← Back to New Zealand overview