Police launched Operation Metallic Red on Sunday, targeting the latest in a series of illegal dirt bike rides. Photo: NZ Police
Five people have been arrested after a large group tore through Auckland on dirt bikes this weekend.
Police launched Operation Metallic Red on Sunday, targeting the latest in a series of illegal dirt bike rides disturbing South Auckland locals.
Acting Counties Manukau District Commander, Inspector Matt Srhoj, said there were up to 50 dirt bikes in the Manukau Memorial Gardens on Sunday, "some doing burnouts and driving dangerously".
Police officers chased the group as they travelled towards State Highway 20. Two riders crashed while fleeing from police, and were taken to hospital with moderate injuries.
Srhoj said neither were wearing safety equipment.
"For their sake they are quite lucky to have not suffered serious injuries, or injured any other road users going about their business."
Their bikes had been impounded and charges were being considered.
The Eagle Helicopter also got involved in the chase, monitoring the group as it moved to Ngāti Ōtara Park. There a rider was arrested and found to be a member of the Killer Bees gang. He was also arrested for drug offences.
Two more riders were arrested, one of whom was involved in a previous dirt bike run connected to the King Cobras gang.
"We understand the community is fed up with these motorbike riders' behaviour and we don't want to see anyone seriously injured or killed," Srhoj said.
"Police will be reviewing CCTV footage, which will likely result in further arrests and charges."
