Police executed more than 10 search warrants across Christchurch properties over three days, including the King Cobra gang's pad in Addington, seizing approximately one kilogram of methamphetamine and bricks of cash believed to total more than $100,000. Six people were arrested, among them a senior figure in the local King Cobra chapter.
Operation Shelby was run by Police's National Organised Crime Group with support from specialist units and Canterbury district staff. Detective Inspector Rebecca Cotton said the operation had been running since 2025, designed specifically to target what investigators believed was a major conduit for Class A drugs into the Canterbury market.
A key break in the case came on 22 April, when a Wellington woman flying into Christchurch Airport was stopped and arrested, along with the driver who had come to collect her. That arrest, which had not previously been made public, gave investigators the foothold they needed to move on the wider network.
Those arrested now face serious charges including participation in an organised criminal group — carrying a maximum 10-year sentence — and conspiracy to supply methamphetamine, which carries a maximum of life imprisonment. Police said their Southern Asset Recovery Unit would examine the assets of all accused 'in forensic detail.'
'These people amassed significant assets through their alleged criminal offending, and they've gone untouched for several years,' Cotton said. 'That has come to an end and they will be held accountable.' A 34-year-old Christchurch man appeared in the Christchurch District Court on 22 May charged with participating in an organised criminal group and engaging in money laundering.
Police said the results of Operation Shelby represented a 'huge win for the community' and would put a significant dent in the syndicate's ability to operate. Investigators are continuing to analyse financial records and are expected to seek further asset seizures in coming weeks.
"It's a devastating blow for an organised crime syndicate and a very good day for us." — Det. Inspector Rebecca Cotton, National Organised Crime Group
