Three arrested after firearms incidents

A109 Light Utility Helicopter flight with mayor Gisborne City from the air in November 2023.

Police arrested three men on Friday and charged them with firearms-related offences following two search warrants executed as part of inquiries into recent gang-related shooting incidents in Gisborne.

The warrants were conducted at addresses in Gisborne and Waipiro Bay following separate firearms incidents in Gisborne.

Two gang members, plus a third man, were taken into custody.

“An 18-year old man was charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, discharging a firearm near a house and unlawful possession of a firearm, and more charges are being considered,” Inspector Darren Paki said.

“A 30-year-old man was charged with presenting a firearm following an incident last Wednesday night, and a 27-year-old man has been charged with being a party to the offending.”

Insp Paki said the investigation into the recent firearms incidents progressed quickly.

“The community has provided valuable information, helping police to determine what occurred and who was involved.

“The investigation remains active with inquiries ongoing.”

Meanwhile, police also used the CAIL (Criminal Activity Intervention Legislation) Act in Gisborne last week, arresting a person for assault and seizing weapons and drugs as Operation Medial continued.

“The legislation has been invoked in the area in response to ongoing tensions between Mongrel Mob and Black Power,” Insp Paki said.

“Several vehicles have been stopped, one person was arrested following an assault with a weapon and a number of weapons (not firearms) have been seized. Small amounts of cannabis and methamphetamine utensils have also been seized.”

A 21-year-old man was taken into custody on Friday on charges of failing to stop for police, resisting police and driving in a dangerous manner.

“Operation Medial and the invocation of CAIL signals a clear message to gang members, and those who believe they are above the law, that illegal and unsafe activity will not be tolerated.

“Tairāwhiti Police will continue to maintain a visible presence in the community and are working hard to disrupt any unlawful or harmful behaviour,” Insp Paki said.

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

“The community can also help. If you see any unlawful activity, please contact Police on 111 if it is happening now, or 105 if it is after the fact.”

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