Rising tensions between rival gangs in Gisborne have led to a series of “concerning incidents” that posed a “very real threat” to the public and those involved.
Police said eight incidents involving assaults and firearms were reported between March 16 and March 23.
While police and gang leaders have been working to ease tensions, the escalation in the conflict has “forced [police] to draw on additional powers”.
Police were issued a gang conflict warrant yesterday afternoon, giving police special powers to search vehicles and occupants of vehicles of suspected gang members and to seize firearms, weapons, and vehicles.
“Officers from across the district are supporting the operation, which will involve a heavy police presence in Gisborne and further afield,” Tairāwhiti area commander Inspector Danny Kirk said.
“Additional police will be patrolling communities across Tairāwhiti, stopping vehicles with links to gang members, searching addresses, and progressing enquiries into the recent events of concern.”
Kirk said he and the police would focus “on the safety of our communities”.
“The incidents we’ve been made aware of posed a very real threat to the lives of those involved, and innocent members of the public.
“We’re not going to tolerate it.”
Police are continuing to work with gang leadership while also sending a “clear message” that all gang members “are in our spotlight”.
“I want to assure our Tairāwhiti communities that we are driving this hard and will be committing significant resources to holding gang members accountable for their actions.”
He urged anyone witnessing an incident happening now to call 111, or 105 if it is after the fact.
