Police have arrested a woman and say they are are zeroing in on the supply of methamphetamine in Gore.
About 40 staff from New Zealand Police and Customs descended on the Gore district this week looking to clamp down on the drug.
In a release yesterday, police said as part of a joint operation targeting the supply of methamphetamine in the Gore community, a woman was arrested earlier this week, and a quantity of methamphetamine and cannabis had been seized.
Police are working to target methamphetamine distribution in Gore after Customs noted an increase in border interceptions of drugs destined for the region.
With the assistance of the armed offenders squad, a 34-year-old woman was arrested in Gore on Wednesday. She was scheduled to appear in the Invercargill District Court yesterday, charged with possession for supply of methamphetamine.
Additional charges and arrests were pending, police said.
Police field crime manager Sean Cairns said the meth was destined to cause immeasurable harm in the community.
"Our role is to minimise and prevent harm from occurring in our communities, to ensure everyone is safe and feels safe.
"I want to send a clear message to those dealing these illicit drugs that cause . . . harm in our community — we have dedicated staff who will continue to target and hold you to account."
Customs investigations manager Dominic Adams said Customs was pleased to support police in achieving this outcome.
"Methamphetamine impacts many communities across New Zealand and we are focused on working closely with our partners to prevent this harm."
Many staff were dedicated to identifying and locating dealers and suppliers of illicit drugs in the region.
Wednesday’s operation involved 40 staff from across the South Island.
Police said if anyone had any information regarding drug dealing they should contact Crime Stoppers on 0800555-111.
