Drunk driver caught with cannabis

Counties Manukau Police say while performing routine breath-testing in east Auckland last night they bagged a whole lot more than expected.

Just after 6.30pm on Thursday, officers signalled for a driver to slow down to be breath tested at a checkpoint on Dawson Road in Clover Park.

Counties Manukau East Police area prevention manager, inspector Rakana Cook, says officers immediately noticed a strong smell of cannabis coming from the vehicle.

“Officers invoked a search of the vehicle and located a substantial amount of cannabis in the footwell of the passenger side of the car.

“A total of nine large zip-lock bags with more than four kilograms of cannabis were found inside a large rubbish bag.

“Subsequently, the driver also recorded a breath alcohol level of 600 micrograms per litre of breath, more than twice the legal limit,” Cook says.

“This was a great find and it’s pleasing to remove these drugs out of our community.”

Police say they’re continuing to remind people that if they’re drinking, do not drive.

“Police will be out in force anywhere – anytime.”

A 45-year-old is due to appear in the Manukau District Court today Friday charged with driving with excess breath alcohol and possession for supply of cannabis.