Police have arrested six men, and seized drugs, ammunition, gang patches, and gang regalia, following search warrants in Kawerau this week.
Seven search warrants were executed across the Kawerau area on Tuesday 25 August by the Gang Disruption Unit as part of an operation targeting gang members known to have breached the Gangs Act 2024.
Police were made aware of the breach after the men were allegedly seen wearing the gang patches on a public road outside a gathering taking place at a private address.
During the search warrants, Police located and seized five gang patches, gang regalia, large amounts of cannabis and synthetic cannabis, MDMA, cocaine, and ammunition.
As a result, six men – all patched Mongrel Mob members – were arrested.
One of the men was found in breach of his gang insignia prohibition order by having gang insignia and regalia at his place of residence. These items were seized during the search warrant.
Sergeant Jonny Lovell says this was a great result, that comes down to the brilliant teamwork from multiple Eastern Bay of Plenty work groups, tactical teams, and dog units.
“Police take breaches to the gang insignia legislation seriously and this operation is a testament to our commitment to this issue – anyone breaching the legislation can expect action from us, whether it be at the time of the offence or through a warrant after the fact.
“We will continue to work hard to disrupt illegal gang activity, and anyone with information on any criminal offending or breaches to the act should contact Police.”
Call 111 if the offending is happening now, or for non-urgent matters contact 105, either online or over the phone, with as much information as safely possible. You can also make non-urgent anonymous reports through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
Charges:
- 29-year-old due in Whakatāne District Court on 18 September charged with prohibited display of gang insignia in public, possession of synthetic cannabis for supply, possession of ecstasy, possession of cannabis, and possession of cocaine.
- 33-year-old due in Whakatāne District Court on 1 September charged with prohibited display of gang insignia in public, and breach of a gang insignia prohibition order.
- Four men, aged 29, 30, 35, and 55, are due in Whakatāne District Court on 1 September charged with prohibited display of gang insignia in public.
