Four more arrests in gang operation

Police have arrested another four gang members and laid firearms and other charges following the gang-related shootings in Gisborne on October 13 and 15.

Three men aged  24, 26 and 33 were arrested after search warrants were executed at three Gisborne residential addresses last week.

A fourth man, aged 31, was arrested following another search at a residential address in Gisborne on Friday. During that search, police seized a firearm and ammunition.

“Police continue working to disrupt gang activity in Gisborne as part of Operation Medial, with investigations into the firearms incidents in early September and early October continuing, and further arrests are likely,” said Inspector Darren Paki of Tairāwhiti Police.

“Police across Tairāwhiti, including Wairoa, will maintain a visible presence and continue to focus on gangs and the harm they cause.”

Insp Paki said the community had provided valuable information, helping police to determine what had occurred and who was involved.

“We ask anyone who has further information to please contact us.

“The community’s support is appreciated, and can often be the key to determine what occurred and holding those responsible to account.

“If you see any unlawful activity or have any information which may assist police in our investigations, please contact police on 111 if it is happening now, or 105 if it is after the fact,” he said.

Alternatively, people can report any information anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers.org

Three of the arrested men were scheduled to appear in Gisborne District Court yesterday.

“The 31-year-old faces charges of unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, along with other charges linked to separate incidents in early September,” Insp Paki said.

“The 26-year-old faces charges of wilful damage and threatening to kill, and the 24-year-old faces charges of robbery and discharging a firearm with intent to intimidate.

“The 33-year-old man is due to appear in Gisborne District Court on Wednesday November 8 on charges of unlawful possession of shotgun ammunition, breach of prison release conditions, and possession of cannabis.”

See also