Auckland police dismantle major Vietnamese cannabis syndicate

New Zealand Police, supported by Immigration New Zealand and Customs, have dismantled an alleged Vietnamese organized crime syndicate involved in large-scale cannabis cultivation across Auckland. The operation, known as ‘Operation Blackout’, involved 19 raids in areas including Flat Bush, Howick, Sylvia Park, Wiri, and Massey.

Twelve individuals were arrested during the investigation. The alleged kingpin, a 36-year-old man from Flat Bush, faces six charges including participating in an organized criminal group, money laundering, and supplying cannabis cultivation equipment. Two women and nine men also face various charges related to drug offences and money laundering.

During the raids, authorities seized approximately $1.25 million worth of cannabis cultivation equipment and $80,000 in cash. Additional seizures included 35kg of cannabis, MDMA pills, a pistol, and ammunition. Detective Senior Sergeant John Brunton described the group as ‘one of the largest of its kind’ regarding its network and activities.