Police arrested a dozen people they say are associates of the Tribesmen gang after receiving a report of suspicious behaviour at an east Auckland property.
A police spokesperson says officers responded to the area of Swan Crescent, Pakuranga, at about 5.30pm on June 2.
“The suspicious activity was believed to involve firearms, so armed police responded along with the Armed Offenders Squad as a precaution. No shots were fired.
“Two vehicles at the address attempted to flee, but were stopped by police.
“Two addresses in the area were also searched with a total of 12 people taken into custody.
“These individuals are thought to have gang affiliations.
“The nearby public will have heard distraction devices being used at one of the properties.
“There is not believed to be any significant risk to the community.”
The spokesperson says police will be following up and cannot rule out further action.
Meanwhile, Counties Manukau Police District Commander, Superintendent Jill Rogers, says an investigation into unlawful gang activity, including firearms incidents and suspicious fires, across the city has seen dozens of charges laid in nearly two weeks.
‘Operation Dairyland’ has resulted in 19 arrests being made and 25 charges laid for firearms and drugs offending.
“Since the operation began, 21 searches have been executed across Auckland with police seizing a total of nine firearms and 341 rounds of ammunition,” Rogers says.
“Police have no tolerance for gun violence and the reckless behaviour that has been on display across our communities in recent weeks.”
Rogers says police will continue to be visible across communities in Auckland and will work to disrupt and prevent such incidents.
People with information about anyone who is illegally in possession of firearms is urged to phone police on 105 or phone the free and anonymous Crimestoppers tip-off line on 0800 555 111.
