Two people have been arrested, with cash, drugs, weapons and ammunition seized in Ōpōtiki, as police use special powers amid rising gang tensions.
The Bay of Plenty town has seen a rise in tensions between Mongrel Mob and Black Power members, leading to police invoking special powers under the Criminal Activity Intervention Legislation Act (CAIL) – in an attempt to quell the activities.
Following nine CAIL warrants at two addresses and on seven vehicles, police have arrested two people, a gang member and a second man.
“A number of items were seized, including $27,000 cash, weapons (not firearms), LSD & Cannabis, and ammunition,” eastern Bay of Plenty commander inspector Nicky Cooney said.
Harry Tam said the "real issue" is the root cause of rising gang membership. (Source: Breakfast)
A 22-year-old man is set to appear in the Ōpōtiki District Court, charged with Possession of Class A drugs, Possession of Class C Drugs, and Unlawful Possession of Ammunition.
A 36-year-old man will also appear on charges of Possession of Offensive Weapons.
Both men will appear in court on Thursday.
“Police will continue to be out in the community, ready to respond to any unlawful behaviour by gangs and anyone who believes that they are above the law.
“We are sending a clear message to all gangs and the wider public that Police do not tolerate unlawful behaviour and will work hard to hold people to account.”
It comes after a woman was shot in her car, which police believe is linked to the ongoing conflict.
There has been a recent spate of shootings in Ōpōtiki, which police say are gang-related.
Police are asking anyone who has seen an incident that may put others at risk to contact them.
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