By Shannon Pitman
The final offenders involved in the multimillion-dollar methamphetamine operation known as Operation Freya were sentenced this week at the High Court in Whangārei. The operation, which dismantled a complex drug empire tied to the Head Hunters and Mongrel Mob gangs, saw 13 individuals arrested in 2021.
Herbert Rata, Patariki Apiata, Kauri Kerr, and Glenn Cook were the last of the accused to face sentencing for their roles in the operation. They faced multiple charges, including methamphetamine supply, manufacturing, and conspiracy, as well as participating in an organised criminal group and firearms offenses.
The joint operation between police and customs officers resulted in 11 search warrants being executed across New Zealand, uncovering a massive smuggling ring that trafficked drugs from overseas for distribution within the country. The investigation began after customs officers shared information with police about several drug packages destined for Northland, some of which were deceptively addressed under the assumed name of Quade Cooper, a famous rugby player, in an effort to conceal the shipment.
One key figure, Taiomo Robert Gillett, was sentenced for his involvement in importing methamphetamine under the fake identity of Cooper. The operation lasted from March 2020 to November 2021, resulting in the seizure of 17kg of methamphetamine, 5.44kg of MDMA, and pseudoephedrine, all with an estimated street value of $8 million.
In addition to the drugs, the authorities also confiscated assets worth around $240,000, including vehicles, a motorbike, and a boat, alongside $70,000 in cash. Two firearms and ammunition were also seized during the raids.
The group’s actions spanned multiple charges, and others implicated in the operation, including Todd Leonard Barry Hilton, Jordan Hokai, Tikellah Puru, Iti Arama, Jodie Kerr, Levi Tali, Marcella Griffen, and Tupaea Kerr, have all been sentenced as well.
The conclusion of Operation Freya marks a significant victory for New Zealand authorities in their fight against organised crime and drug trafficking.