A 22-year-old man has been charged following a traffic stop in Northcote, where police discovered a loaded sawn-off shotgun, 50 rounds of ammunition, and bags of methamphetamine in a vehicle. The incident, which took place on Ocean View Road, highlights the ongoing efforts by Waitematā police to combat gun and drug-related crimes.

Acting Inspector Tim Williams confirmed that two officers conducting routine patrols stopped a BMW on Ocean View Road. During the search of the car, they found the dangerous weapon in the driver's footwell. In addition to the firearm, officers uncovered a significant quantity of methamphetamine and related paraphernalia.

The suspect, who has not been named, now faces multiple charges, including unlawful possession of a firearm, possession of methamphetamine, and possession of drug-related utensils. He is expected to appear in North Shore District Court on Tuesday.

This case underscores the risks posed by unregistered firearms and illegal drug use within the community. Police have emphasized the importance of public awareness and cooperation in preventing such incidents. The discovery also raises questions about how such dangerous items can be accessed and transported without detection.

Local residents have expressed concern over the incident, with some calling for increased police presence and stricter gun control measures. As the case progresses, it is likely to spark further discussion on how to address the intersection of gun violence and drug trafficking in the region.