Ashburton Police have arrested two men and seized a substantial quantity of firearms, drugs, and cash following an operation targeting illicit drug activity.

Detective Senior Sergeant Leigh Jenkins said the operation resulted in the seizure of approximately $200,000 in cash, 14 firearms, 844 cannabis plants, and 12.3 kilograms of cannabis head.

In addition, a significant amount of equipment used for cannabis cultivation was confiscated.

A 59-year-old man has been charged with supplying cannabis, cultivating cannabis, possession of cannabis for supply, and unlawful possession of a firearm.

He is scheduled to reappear in Ashburton District Court on 9 September.

A 55-year-old man has also been charged in connection with the operation.

His charges include cultivating cannabis, conspiring to deal with cannabis, and selling or supplying a firearm to a non-licensed holder.

He is set to appear in Ashburton District Court on 19 August 2024.

Detective Senior Sergeant Jenkins said the investigation is ongoing and that further charges may be laid as inquiries continue.