Gang violence in Hawke’s Bay: Police seize guns and drugs in response

Firearms and drugs were seized and one person was arrested after Hawke’s Bay police ordered a search due to violent gang incidents in the region.

Two people were left with gunshot wounds after two gang shootings in Napier early last week, and two people were stabbed in Hastings last Sunday.

The most recent incident, on Warren St, Hastings, left a man seriously injured.

Hawke’s Bay police seized drugs and multiple firearms after search warrants were executed at two Raupunga addresses on Tuesday.

The arrests are imminent, a police spokesman said.

Police said several search warrants were also carried out at addresses in Napier on Thursday in connection with the “recent tension.”

Following the search warrants, one person was arrested on unrelated charges.

Hawke’s Bay Area Prevention Manager Inspector Martin James said Hawke’s Bay Police continued to provide peace of mind patrols due to ongoing gang activity.

James said the police took the incidents extremely seriously and that their priority was the safety and well-being of the community.

“The increased police presence has had a positive impact on reducing gang activity, however, we recognize that the tension still remains,” he said.

“Police will continue to be highly visible around Hawke’s Bay with a specific focus on gang activity and an emphasis on reducing and preventing the harm caused by these groups.”

Hawke’s Bay Police previously said they will meet with local gang leaders to discuss the recent incidents.

Investigations continue, James said.