Nineteen Hells Angels members and their associates have been arrested and nearly $2.5 million in assets have been seized in a “huge blow” to the motorcycle club’s Whanganui chapter, police say.
The arrests were made after police – with assistance from the armed offenders squad and the special tactics group – carried out 30 searches on properties and vehicles across Whanganui, Auckland, Palmerston North and Hastings this morning.
Seventeen men and two women have been charged – including the president, vice-president, and sergeant at arms, Detective Inspector Craig Sheridan said.
“During the warrants across the North Island, items seized included five firearms, a brick of cocaine, $7000 cash, and around 10 ounces of meth.”
A further five motorcycles, seven vehicles, three properties, two jet skis, and around $108,000 cash have been restrained by the police’s Central Asset Recovery Unit.
Sheridan said it was a significant blow to the gang, which has had an entrenched presence in the Whanganui community for decades.
“The assets restrained are believed to be the proceeds of crime, and anyone profiting from the sale of illicit drugs can expect to see their assets restrained or forfeited.
“We will continue to use all available tools to disrupt criminal organisations who profit from this offending, and from the harm caused by illicit drugs in our community.”
The arrests were made as part of Operation Round Up, which began in March 2024 and was spearheaded by the central district organised crime unit.
Police said further arrests and charges cannot be ruled out.
‘The generational harm they have caused is significant’
Whanganui area commander inspector Neil Forlong said the arrest of so many leaders of the Hells Angels will have a huge impact on the community.
“This gang has been a part of the fabric of Whanganui for years, and the generational harm they have caused is significant,” he said.
“The very fact this gang has been part of so many lives means we need also to take care of those who have relied on the gang’s activities for so long – partners, children, now all need support.”
Police said local agencies will help assist whanau and loved ones impacted by these arrests, to ensure they have support moving forward.
Forlong added local iwi leadership has spoken to him about introducing a meth harm reduction programme in Whanganui, which police would be supportive of.
Police said all those arrested have appeared today or are appearing in court in coming days, in Whanganui, Palmerston North, Hastings, and Tamaki Makaurau.
