Praneeta Mahajan
Hamilton, August 30, 2024
In a significant crackdown on organised crime, police have arrested every patched member of the Christchurch chapter of the Comancheros gang in a major operation yesterday. The arrests mark a substantial victory in the ongoing battle against gang-related activities in New Zealand.
The operation, dubbed “Operation Avon,” culminated after an intensive eight-month investigation spearheaded by the National Organised Crime Group (NOCG), with support from Canterbury Police. The operation targeted the Comancheros due to their alleged involvement in extensive drug trafficking and money laundering activities across the country.
Widespread Raids and Seizures
As part of the operation, police executed around 70 warrants across the country, including 29 warrants at various addresses and more than 40 warrants on vehicles, predominantly in Christchurch, with several carried out in Auckland.
This coordinated effort resulted in the seizure of approximately five kilograms of Class A drugs, including methamphetamine and cocaine, 11 firearms, ammunition, and around $250,000 in cash.
In addition to the drugs and weapons, police also restrained assets valued at $1.9 million, including an Auckland property and 11 vehicles believed to be linked to the gang’s illegal operations.
Detective Inspector Darrin Thomson, who led the operation, highlighted the significant impact of the seizure and said, “Class A drugs cause untold harm and misery in our communities. These groups have no hesitation in peddling drugs and accumulating wealth, with no regard for the destruction they cause in everyday New Zealanders’ lives.”
Impact on drug supply
18 men, aged between 18 and 55, were arrested and have already made their first court appearances in Christchurch and Auckland. The charges against them include participating in an organised criminal group, conspiracy to supply methamphetamine, and conspiracy to supply cocaine. Further charges, including money laundering and drug dealing, are being considered as the investigation continues.
Mr Thomson emphasised that the arrests would disrupt the gang’s operations and have a positive impact on the drug supply chain across the country. “We have no doubt that this disruption of the Comanchero gang will have a positive impact on the drug supply chain across the country,” he said.
He said, “the gang was heavily involved in transporting drugs and cash between Auckland and Christchurch on a regular basis, with over a million dollars’ worth of drugs being moved at wholesale value. At prosecution, police will allege that the street value of these drugs equates to more than $15 million.”
Combatting organised crime
The Christchurch chapter of the Comancheros had become a priority target for the NOCG due to their alleged brazen criminal activities, which were reportedly expanding across New Zealand.
Mr Thomson reiterated the commitment of the New Zealand Police to combat organised crime and protect communities from the harm caused by such groups. “Operation Avon is holding those responsible to account following a meticulous investigation and coordinated response,” he stated. “Arresting every member of the chapter will put an end to their unwanted presence in our Christchurch community.”
The New Zealand Police continue to work towards dismantling organised criminal networks and mitigating the harm they inflict on communities nationwide. Further developments in the case are expected as the prosecution process unfolds and additional charges are filed.
Praneeta Mahajan is an Indian Newslink reporter based in Hamilton.
