Six gang members and associates have been arrested in Northland following "ongoing tensions" between the Head Hunters and Black Power gangs, police have announced.
Tempers have flared between the gangs in the last month, with shootings taking place on two separate occassions - once at a house, and another a vehicle in Raumanga - both in broad daylight.
After an investigation into these incidents, six search warrants were carried out in Whangarei this week, resulting in six arrests.
"Four of those arrested are Black Power gang members or associates, while two associates of the Head Hunters have also been arrested. A shotgun, ammunition and a small quantity of drugs were located during the warrants," a police spokesperson said.
Five of the six arrested will face drugs or firearm-related charges, and will appear in the Whangarei District Court. The sixth person was given a pre-charge warning.
An investigation into the two incidents is ongoing.
"We have spoken to a number of individuals in relation to these incidents, however so far people have not been forthcoming with information," said Detective Senior Sergeant Kevan Verry, of the Northland Organised Crime Unit.
"We know there are multiple people out there with information about these matters and we urge them to do the right thing and come forward to Police.
"Any information provided to Police will be treated in strict confidence, and information can also be provided anonymously to Crime Stoppers by phoning 0800 555 111."
Det Snr Sgt Verry says gun violence and gang tensions have no place in Northland's community and police have zero tolerance for it.
"Fortunately no one was harmed in these incidents but it could've been much worse," he said.
"We understand tensions remain high between these gangs and we have tried to engage with senior gang leaders, however we have been very disappointed by their lack of engagement and unwillingness to take responsibility for deescalating the tensions between these gangs, which is putting the wider public at risk.
"We are continuing to work with community leaders and we remain committed to keeping our community safe.
"Police will continue to investigate these serious firearms incidents and we will not hesitate to arrest any gang members responsible for these tensions or anyone involved in illicit drugs and firearms offences."
