The two, both 28, were among six men arrested following search warrants in Waikato and Auckland as part of Operation Poapoa in June 2022. The police operation targeted an organized criminal group allegedly importing and distributing drugs from class A, B and C.
The men face a variety of charges, including involvement in organized crime and the sale and supply of Class A and B drugs.
The Hamilton Superior Court also ordered the seizure of the two men's Taupiri home, valued at $680,000, as well as non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and cryptocurrency, purchased for $930,812, four vehicles, a Harley Davidson motorcycle, and $47,000.
"Police obtained restraining orders for these assets under the Criminal Proceeds (Recovery) Act 2009," said Sergeant Major Keith Kay of the Waikato/Bay of Plenty Asset Recovery Unit.
"Methamphetamine and other illicit drugs cause immense harm in our communities and are the drivers of crime, creating victims and distress throughout society.
"The Criminal Proceeds (Recovery) Act allows police to not only recover criminal proceeds, but also prevents criminals from reinvesting the proceeds of their crime to cause further damage."
Police welcome information from anyone with concerns about organized crime or the supply of illicit drugs in their community.
They are encouraged to report online at 105.police.govt.nz, call the police on 111 or 105, or report anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-nz.org.
