Auckland, NZ – A nine‑month police investigation has uncovered what authorities describe as a sophisticated drug‑importation and distribution ring using the dark web to smuggle large quantities of illicit substances into New Zealand.
Operation Solana — led by the National Organised Crime Group — culminated in coordinated raids across Auckland and Hamilton on Thursday and Friday, resulting in the arrest of 11 people.
The operation targeted an alleged network involved in sourcing and supplying methamphetamine, cocaine, MDMA and ketamine.
Police executed 16 search warrants, seizing significant quantities of drugs alongside approximately $500,000 in cash and three firearms, one of which was a 3D‑printed weapon.
Investigators say the group relied on encrypted messaging platforms, anonymous online marketplaces and cryptocurrency services to obscure their identities and financial trails.
Detective Senior Sergeant Jason Hunt said the inquiry began after investigators identified a local syndicate suspected of using anonymous dark‑web trading sites to conduct illegal activity.
“We have established this group allegedly imported and distributed these controlled drugs across the country,” Hunt said.
Police believe the drugs were shipped from multiple overseas sources, including the UK, Europe and the United States.
Working with New Zealand Customs and international agencies — among them US and European law‑enforcement partners and the Australian Border Force — authorities intercepted more than 200 kilograms of controlled drugs offshore before they could reach the network.
Additional quantities of methamphetamine, cocaine, MDMA and ketamine were discovered during the execution of this week’s search warrants.
The 11 arrested individuals, aged between 24 and 42, were expected to appear in the Auckland District and Hamilton District Courts today.
They face a raft of charges, including the importation, possession and supply of Class A, B and C drugs, unlawful possession of firearms and participation in an organised criminal group.
Hunt said Operation Solana demonstrated the growing capability of police to track offending in encrypted and anonymous online environments.
“Offending on the dark web is not invisible,” he said. “These arrests send a clear message: If you are importing or dealing drugs through the dark web, we will find you, and we will hold you to account.”
