Source: New Zealand Police
West Coast Police have seized drugs and items related to the sale and supply of illicit drugs following a series of search warrants across Westport today.
Operation Boston was set up to target the sale and supply of illicit drugs in the Westport community. The operation resulted in the seizure of an amount of cannabis, methamphetamine, and other evidential material.
“While targeting and holding accountable those responsible for the supply of illicit drugs remains a key focus, the operation was also designed to address the wider harm caused by organised crime within our communities,” says Detective Senior Sergeant Brent Lyford.
“Organised crime groups profit from addiction and vulnerability, often leaving lasting impacts on individuals, families, and communities.”
Police, alongside partners from the Resilience to Organised Crime in Communities (ROCC) work programme, identified a further 12 households experiencing the impacts of organised crime and addiction, with follow-up visits undertaken to offer assistance and connection through referrals to community-based support.
Police recognise that addiction is a complex issue that affects individuals, families and communities. By working alongside partner agencies and community organisations, Police aim to reduce demand for illicit drugs while strengthening support networks for those who need help.
“Charges in relation to today’s warrants are under consideration, and we continue to work hard to hold offenders accountable for the sale and supply of illicit drugs,” says Detective Senior Sergeant Lyford.
“I am pleased that through ROCC, we can take a wider approach to enforcement and support those who are experiencing the harmful effects of addiction and organised crime by connecting people with services that can help them address the challenges they are facing and build safer, healthier futures.
“We want to help the West Coast community address the harm that organised crime and drugs cause and encourage anyone seeking help for drug-related issues to reach out to health providers, support services, or community organisations.”
Anyone with information about drug dealing and organised criminal activity is urged to make a report through 105, either online or over the phone, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/22/op-boston-targets-drug-supply-while-supporting-families-affected-by-organised-crime/