A Brunswick Rd, Wanganui, resident got a rude awakening yesterday morning when he heard what sounded like gunshots. The disturbance was due to a search warrant being carried at Mongrel Mob premises in Queen St by Wanganui police. At the same time a search warrant was being executed at a Talbot St address. The resident said he heard a loud hailer first followed by what sounded like gunshots.
"But it could have been tear gas or smacking down doors." Senior Sergeant Duncan MacLeod confirmed no gun shots were fired, but was unable to explain the noise. Mr MacLeod would not elaborate on what ammunition and drugs were found at both addresses.
A Talbot St resident said he watched police handcuff about eight people outside a nearby address about 7.30am, but they were later released. He had no problems with his neighbours and found them to be rather quiet.
"We don't hear any noise, no parties, nothing." The search was carried out with assistance from the Wanganui and Palmerston North armed offenders squads. Police dogs also helped police in their searches. Mr MacLeod said police anticipated making arrests.
Peter Nahona, seriously injured in last week's gang clash outside BP Wanganui East, was transferred from Wellington Hospital to Wanganui Hospital on Monday and released yesterday, Mr MacLeod said.
Police also encouraged members of the public to contact them if they noticed any build up of gang members in the district.
+ A 41-year-old man appeared in the Wanganui District Court yesterday charged with assault after the clash between Mongrel Mob and Hells Angels members at BP Wanganui East on February 28. The man was granted court bail out of Wanganui and will next appear on Tuesday.
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