Arrests after gang shootings in Whakatane

  • 27/01/2017

Twelve people have been arrested following gang-related shootings in Whakatane earlier this month.

Police say the arrests were made after four search warrants were carried out in Whakatane on Friday morning.

The 12 men face a raft charges, including:

  • Using a firearm against law enforcement officers
  • Reckless Discharge of a Firearm
  • Unlawful Possession of Firearms
  • Participating in an Organised Criminal Group
  • Rioting.

The arrests came after gunshots were fired on January 17, as Mongrel Mob and Black Power gang members clashed over a funeral procession.

Shots were fired as gang members attempted to stop their rivals from entering the town.

The unrest was believed to have followed an altercation between the two gangs outside a funeral home the week before, when the coffin of Mongrel Mob member Tahu Kingi fell onto the road.

"The antisocial behaviour of these individuals and the events of 17 January were dangerous and unacceptable, and because of them members of the public were put at risk," said Mr Wilson.

The searches also uncovered a firearm and ammunition.

Police say they will continue to investigate "until all those identified are held to account for their behaviour".

Newshub.