Bay of Plenty Police are cracking down on drugs with a number of search warrants being executed in the region today.

A police spokesperson says officers are 'today executing a large number of search warrants across the Bay of Plenty region”.

'These warrants are part of an investigation targeting organised crime and the distribution of illicit drugs in the community.

'The majority of these warrants are being executed at properties in Kawerau, Whakatane and Opotiki.

'The public can expect to see a significant Police presence in these areas while the warrants are executed,” says police.

'Warrants will also take place at a small number of addresses in Gisborne and Hastings.

Further information will be released as it becomes available.”