Police say an operation investigating a string of firearms incidents in Auckland has led to the arrest of 19 people affiliated to the Killer Beez and Tribesmen gangs.
Twelve associates of the Tribesmen gang were taken into custody after police conducted searches of two Pakuranga properties last night. Photo: RNZ / Mohammad Alafeshat
In a statement, Counties Manukau District Commander Superintendent Jill Rogers said Operation Dairyland, which aims to investigate Auckland gang activity, had led to more than two dozen charges being laid against 19 people who were arrested in close to two weeks.
The arrested individuals are believed to be affiliated to the Killer Beez and Tribesmen gangs.
Rogers said 21 properties were searched in the operation, resulting in the seizure of nine firearms and 341 rounds of ammunition.
The operation would continue to investigate a series of firearms incidents and suspicious fires occurring in the area since late May, she said.
"Police have no tolerance for gun violence and the reckless behaviour that has been on display across our communities in recent weeks.
"There is no place in our community for gang tensions and the public will continue to see police responding to any unlawful behaviour by gang members," Rogers said.
She said this was exemplified in the police response to a report of suspicious behaviour involving a firearm in the Auckland suburb of Pakuranga last night.
Police took 12 Tribesmen associates into custody after undertaking searches in two properties in the area.
However, police failed to locate a firearm at the scene.
One Tribesmen associate will appear in court after being found to be in breach of his release conditions.
Rogers said police would continue to be visible in Auckland communities and further arrests could not be ruled out.
