Every member of the Comanchero's Christchurch chapter was arrested and drugs, cash, firearms and motorbikes seized. Photo: Police/supplied
Police have arrested every member of the Comancheros gang's Christchurch chapter in drug bust.
5kg of class A drugs, 11 firearms, ammunition, about $250,000 cash, 11 vehicles, and an Auckland property were also seized, police said.
It was the culmination of an eight-month investigation, called Operation Avon, by the National Organised Crime Group and Canterbury Police.
Photo: Police/supplied
Police alleged the gang organised for drugs and cash to be relayed between Auckland and Christchurch every few weeks.
Detective Inspector Thomson said police believed $15 million worth of drugs were moved between the North and South Island.
"Operation Avon is holding those responsible to account following a meticulous investigation and coordinated response.
"Pivotally, arresting every member of the chapter will put an end to their unwanted presence in our Christchurch community."
Photo: Police/supplied
70 warrants were executed in Christchurch and Auckland on Wednesday.
18 men, aged between 18 and 55, were arrested and have appeared in court in Christchurch and Auckland.
Charges included participating in an organised criminal group, conspiracy to supply methamphetamine, and conspiracy to supply cocaine. Further charges of money laundering and drug dealing were being considered.
Detective Inspector Darrin Thomson said the drug offending involved methamphetamine and cocaine.
"These groups have no hesitation in peddling drugs and accumulating vehicles and property, with no regard for the destruction they cause in everyday New Zealanders' lives.
"We have no doubt that this disruption of the Comanchero gang will have a positive impact on the drug supply chain across the country."
Photo: Police/supplied
Police said the Auckland property and vehicles seized were worth $1.9 million and the class A drugs seized were worth millions.
