Police raided properties linked to a mongrel gang in the North Island this morning following an investigation into suspected methamphetamine distribution.

Search warrants were issued in the eastern Bay of Plenty, Waikato, Auckland, Rotorua, Taupo and Hawke’s Bay.

The operation was led by the National Organized Crime Group (NOCG), a police unit specializing in undercover investigations.

NOCG investigations typically focus on the top echelon of crime syndicates smuggling drugs into New Zealand, such as 515kg of methamphetamine hidden inside steel beams from the United States.

Other recent investigations have focused on the Comancheros outlaw motorcycle gang, which has genuine links to overseas organized crime groups.