A “significant operation” is underway across Tairāwhiti and Hawke’s Bay in relation to gang activity, police say.
Today, Eastern District Police said it obtained a Gang Conflict Warrant, following several incidents stemming from “ongoing tensions” between Mongrel Mob and Black Power in the two regions.
The warrant gave police powers to search vehicles of suspected gang members, along with the ability to seize firearms, weapons and vehicles.
Shots fired at houses linked to both gangs
One recent incident police noted occurred at 10.45pm on Tuesday in Wairoa.
Police said shots were fired at houses in the area belonging to both gangs. A separate house in Napier connected to one of the houses was also targeted this morning.
“We’re also aware of a number of alleged gang-related incidents in Wairoa that have not been reported to us, including assaults, vehicle rammings, other damage to cars, and threatening behaviour,” said detective inspector and manager of district criminal investigations, Marty James.
Today, police arrested two men, aged 18 and 35, in relation to the Wairoa incident.
“Further arrests are likely in the coming days.”
Police confirmed the significant operation was in response to what it described as “senseless violence” between the two gangs.
“The Gang Conflict Warrant issued today gives us valuable additional powers to draw on.
“The residents of our communities have the right to be able to go about their daily lives without fearing for their safety from gang-related violence.
“They’ve had enough and so have we.”
‘Gang members should be on notice’
James said officers in both regions would be stopping vehicles with links to gang members and searching gang-related addresses.
“Officers will also be maintaining a highly visible presence in our communities to provide reassurance.”
“We are determined to hold those responsible for the recent offending to account and gang members should be on notice that we will not tolerate this ongoing violence.”
