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A senior leader of the notorious Comanchero motorcycle gang has been arrested in east Auckland and is facing numerous charges relating to drug importation.
Police say the man was the last of the gang’s leadership group not facing charges, until now.
He’s the gang’s national vice-president and is charged with offences linked to the importation of methamphetamine and cocaine into the country.
Police Assistant Commissioner Investigations Paul Basham says every member of the gang’s leadership is now facing serious charges.
“This is a significant milestone and represents years of relentless investigative work to disrupt and hold the Comancheros to account for criminal activity.
“There is no doubt that this sustained enforcement activity has had considerable impact on the gang’s ability to conduct their offending.”
The 36-year-old man was arrested in Howick yesterday, April 8.
Basham says members of the National Organised Crime Group were there to make the arrest.
“This man has been charged over the investigation into the importation of methamphetamine at the Port of Tauranga in December last year,” he says.
“He’s also been charged over offending linked to the importation of cocaine into New Zealand earlier this year.
“It will be alleged that this man played a significant role in working across transnational organised criminal groups with these importations.”
This week’s arrest follows three major investigations which culminated at the end of 2024 with nearly every Comanchero member facing criminal charges.
“This is tenacious investigative work and I’d like to acknowledge the investigation staff based in Auckland and the Bay of Plenty,” Basham says.
“We have not wavered in enforcing the law with gangs and organised criminal groups who are causing a high level of harm in communities right across this country.”
The 36-year-old man was to appear in the Auckland District Court today, April 9, charged with importing methamphetamine, attempted possession of cocaine for supply and participating in an organised criminal group.
READ MORE:
Powerful Comancheros gang leader denied parole – Times
Police launch mass crackdown on Comanchero gang – Times
Gang motorcycles crushed as police gain new powers to tackle crime – Times
