Vehicles sought after shootings

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

Police want to hear about sightings of two vehicles they believe were connected to two separate drive-by shooting incidents in the city last week in which shots were fired at houses.

The first incident took place about 9pm on Newton Street, Kaiti last Wednesday September 6.

Police understand a firearm was discharged from a vehicle at a residential property.

“The investigation team is appealing for sightings of a dark-coloured sedan believed to have been in the area at the time,” said Detective Sergeant Eric Hunter.

During a vehicle stop later that night, three gang members aged 18, 25 and 31 were found in possession of a firearm and ammunition, and have been charged with unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition.

“The second incident occurred about 5.50pm on Mangapapa Road, Mangapapa last Thursday September 7,” Det Sgt Hunter said.

“We understand a firearm was discharged from a vehicle at a residential property in this incident too.

“A silver Subaru is believed to have been in the area around the time of the incident and anyone who saw this vehicle is encouraged to contact police.”

A 25-year-old gang member was arrested on Friday morning following a search warrant which was executed at a Gisborne address earlier last week. He has been charged with the unlawful possession of a firearm.

Police seized a shotgun from the house.

“Fortunately, no one was injured during either of these incidents.

“Police appreciate this behaviour is unsettling for the community,” Det Sgt Hunter said.

“We hope these arrests demonstrate that police will act quickly to hold offenders to account.”

Anyone with information relating to the dark-coloured sedan or the Silver Subaru is urged to contact Police via 105 and quote file numbers 230907/1186 or 230908/6585, respectively.

Alternatively, information can be given anonymously via Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.