Editorial: Hunt for gangster closes in

Police car fleet numbers may be reduced by ten per cent to save money, according to a new report. 15 June 2009 New Zealand Herald Photograph by Martin Sykes NZH 16Oct12 - Tickets are generally wai

Police pressure is mounting for wanted man Anzac Gemmell.

Police yesterday searched two properties in Wairoa looking for the patched Mongrel Mob member, who has been on the run from police for more than a year. Police believe he has been hiding out in Wairoa or the greater Hawke's Bay area.

In an unexpected spinoff in the hunt for Gemmell, police yesterday announced thousands of cannabis seedlings, undersized paua, and stolen property were seized from the properties searched, where they believed he may have been hiding.

Police also seized a large amount of property on fines warrants, relating to unpaid court fines.

Hawke's Bay Today first profiled the police hunt for Gemmell in July, including details of his role in an alleged kidnapping and threat to cause grievous bodily harm during an incident last year.

In July police said he would have access to weapons and is considered dangerous.

Gemmell has also received national exposure when he featured on Police 10-7 in March this year.

With several people facing new charges stemming from the police searches, one would hope those harbouring Gemmell are starting to question the wisdom of their decision.

Local police should be commended for the proactive measures they've undertaken in their hunt, because while Gemmell remains free after Wednesday's police searches, the pressure will now be mounting for not only him, but also his associates.