Classic cars, gold bars, drugs and guns uncovered in Wellington raids
Police in Wellington, New Zealand, have arrested two men following a two-day raid that uncovered a significant cache of illicit drugs, firearms, and luxury assets. The haul included methamphetamine, gold bars, cash, and a collection of classic cars, which authorities believe were funded by long-term criminal activity.
Why it matters
The case highlights the growing trend of criminals using precious metals and luxury assets to launder money, prompting increased scrutiny from asset recovery units.
Two people have been arrested after a haul of guns, drugs, gold bars and classic cars were uncovered while police raided properties in Wellington. The haul was discovered during a two-day search of two properties and included GHB (fantasy), cannabis, a kilo of methamphetamine in distinctive wrapping worth approximately $105,000, and space vape liquid and packaging. Officers also found cases of cash containing an estimated $100,000 in cash, gold bars and $50,000 in gold coins. A large recycling bin was also filled with copper. A rifle, a 3D-printed firearm and nine classic cars, including a limousine, a Chevrolet Bel Air and a Plymouth Savoy, were also seized. Police said the raids and subsequent arrests followed years of investigations. "One of the men has been supplying a wide range of illicit drugs from his property for many years, benefitting off the addiction of others,” Detective Senior Sargeant Lee Underhill said.
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Police Seize Millions in Assets and Classic Cars During Wellington Raids
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