Major Bust of $1.2M Dark Web Drug Operation in New Zealand

Severity: Low (Score: 24.9)

Sources: Scoop.Co.Nz, 1News.Co.Nz, Indianweekender.Co.Nz, Rnz.Co.Nz

Summary

Two individuals were arrested in New Zealand as part of Operation Laver, targeting a significant dark web drug operation valued at approximately $1.2 million. The investigation revealed around 2,800 drug transactions occurring over nine months, from June 2025 to March 2026. The arrested individuals, a 35-year-old man and a 32-year-old woman, are facing multiple charges related to the sale and supply of Class A, B, and C controlled drugs. Police executed a warrant at a rural property in northern Auckland, seizing various drugs in different stages of preparation for distribution and approximately $55,000 in cash. Authorities indicated that further charges and additional arrests may occur as the investigation continues. Detective Senior Sergeant Reece Sirl warned that dark net vendors are not immune to prosecution despite operating in secrecy. Key Points: • Two arrests made in a dark web drug operation involving $1.2 million in transactions. • Operation Laver targeted a prolific user on New Zealand's largest dark web marketplace. • Police seized various drugs and $55,000 in cash during the investigation.

Key Entities

• Operation Lava (campaign)
• Operation Laver (campaign)
• New Zealand (country)