Police are investigating after a group of Mongrel Mob gangsters attacked two members of a rival gang in Palmerston North.
It comes after an increase in gang numbers after 35-year-old Raniel Kiu was fatally injured at a property in the city.
According to Stuff, dozens of Mongrel Mob members were passing by a Palmerston North cafe on Thursday, May 18, during a funeral procession for Kiu.
Then at least six members wearing gang insignia jumped from a vehicle and set upon two men with facial tattoos who were standing on the footpath outside.
According to the NZ Herald, footage showed the men driven to the ground where they were repeatedly kicked, punched and stomped.
A Stuff reporter at the scene said the victims suffered visible facial injuries while their attackers rejoined the procession.
Detective Inspector Craig Sheridan said police haven't received a formal complaint but are completing a criminal investigation. There have been no arrests or charges.
"Since the death of Raniel Kiu there has been an increase in Mongrel Mob members in the Palmerston North area," he said in a statement on Sunday.
"However, the presence of members has dropped off considerably following Mr Kiu's tangi.
"During this time, staff from both inside the Manawatū and the wider Central District, have assisted with high visibility patrols and continue to do so to provide reassurance to the Palmerston North community."
