A gun, ammunition and drugs were found in a stolen van in Whitianga, police allege.

The van was taken from a Manaia property sometime between April 20 and 21, but a break in the case came on Friday when officers found it outside a White St address in Whitianga, Eastern Waikato Police area commander Inspector Mike Henwood said today.

“The vehicle was subsequently searched and police located a firearm, ammunition, methamphetamine and a significant amount of cash.

“It’s a great result, it’s a win for the victim who’s going to be reunited with their vehicle and it’s a win for the community,” Henwood said.

“Any time you get firearms and drugs off the street, the community wins.

He said drugs – especially methamphetamine – were a “significant driver of crime and harm” and police worked hard to hold suppliers accountable and remove drugs from circulation.

Police have found a firearm, ammunition and drugs in an stolen van in Whitianga.

A 34-year-old man is due to appear in the Thames District Court later this week on charges including possession of methamphetamine for supply, unlawful possession of a firearm and unlawfully getting into a motor vehicle.

Police encouraged anyone with concerns about illegal drug use in their community to call 111 if there is an immediate public safety risk, or contact police via 105 online or by phone to make a report.