Police have swarmed dozens of properties across the city, including in east Auckland, as part of an operation targeting Killer Beez gang members and associates.
An enforcement phase was conducted this week following the monitoring of funeral processions for suspected Ponsonby Road gunman Hone Kay-Selwyn in May.
More than 20 vehicles have been seized and charges laid as a result.
Police officers from across the region, including staff from Counties Manukau district and Operation Cobalt, assisted in the series of search warrants.
Warrants began before dawn on Wednesday and were carried out in suburbs including Botany, Ellerslie, Pōkeno, Manurewa, Māngere, Ōtara Papatoetoe and Massey.
Inspector Rakana Cook says between May 9-13 police closely monitored the transport of Kay-Selwyn’s body ahead of processions.
This phase of the operation also included high visibility patrolling throughout the weekend.
In addition, police ran a checkpoint at Manukau Memorial Gardens on May 13.
“Throughout, police set clear expectations around acceptable behaviour on our roads,” Cook says.
“The enforcement action this week sends a clear message that police will not tolerate anti-social behaviour, particularly where the community’s safety has been put at risk.”
Nineteen vehicles and one motorbike have been seized so far.
Two people, aged 28 and 31, have been summonsed to appear in court on charges relating to sustained loss of traction and dangerous driving, respectively.
At several addresses, police worked alongside bailiffs from the Ministry of Justice with nearly $25,000 recovered from unpaid fines.
Cook says: “Police are pleased with the operation’s outcomes and confirmed that enquiries are ongoing, with further seizures and arrests possible.
“The public should rightfully expect to be able to use the road network safely and free from unlawful behaviour.
“I acknowledge the support the public provided to our investigation team and police will continue to follow up and take action where offending is clearly identified during these types of events.”
Police encourage anyone witnessing unlawful or dangerous driving behaviour to report it as it occurs by calling 111.
Information can also be provided after the fact by contacting 105 or reporting anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
