Police have seized more than $2.4 million in cash, as an investigation continues into the activities of an alleged trans-national organised crime group operating in New Zealand.
“The National Organised Crime Group investigation, named Operation Samson, continues to investigate people and entities connected to the New Zealand chapter of the Hells Angels Motorcycle Club,” said Detective Inspector Albie Alexander.
“Throughout the last week Police executed a series of search warrants at several residential and commercial addresses across Auckland.
“As a result, Police seized over $2.4 million cash, a firearm, methamphetamine and cannabis.”
A 30-year-old patched member of the Hells Angels has been charged with money laundering and has appeared in the Auckland District Court.
Detective Inspector Alexander says the activities of the group undermine the wellbeing of the nation’s communities.
“We will continue to target those who accumulate assets and wealth through illegal means,” he said.
“In conjunction with Operation Cobalt, we will also continue to target and suppress illegal gang activity in order to enhance the safety of our community and staff – and hold those responsible for this type of offending, to account.”
Detective Inspector Alexander acknowledged the outstanding work done by the investigation team and the assistance of partner agencies in New Zealand and overseas in this operation.
“We are all committed to disrupting and dismantling these illegal trans-national networks operating in New Zealand,” he said.
The investigation is ongoing, with Police saying they can’t rule out further arrests and charges being laid.
