Police have arrested ten people on over 70 drug charges following a series of search warrants in Southland and Otago this week.

Police also seized approximately $16,000, ammunition, drugs, and other drug paraphernalia.

Detective Senior Sergeant Greg Baird said the Southland and Otago Coastal Organised Crime teams executed warrants as part of Operation Strata, targeting drug dealers with gang connections.

There were 15 warrants in total, in Invercargill, Dunedin, Gore, Mataura, and other rural properties, he said.

The 10 people arrested face numerous serious charges, from supplying methamphetamine, MDMA, cocaine, LSD and cannabis, to possession of restricted weapons and ammunition.

Baird said investigations were ongoing and he expected to make more arrests, and file further charges, in coming days.

Operation Strata involved over 30 staff from a number of Police groups across the Southern District and South Island, including the Te Waipounamu Gang Disruption Unit based in Christchurch.

If you have any information about the supply of illicit drugs, please contact Police through 105, either online or via phone, report it to your local Police station, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 0800 555 111.

Braid said Police encourage anyone affected by drug addiction to seek help through Alcohol and Drug helpline on 0800 787 797, or free text 8681.