The teenager faces a further charge of discharging a firearm with intent to intimidate in relation to a series of shootings in Gisborne over October 26 and 27.
“The seized .303 rifle was stolen during a burglary several months ago,” Det Sgt Hunter said.
“Inquiries into that event and the subsequent shootings are ongoing and more arrests are expected.”
The operation followed search warrants at Gisborne addresses on Tuesday and Wednesday.
“Early on Tuesday, police executed a warrant that led to the recovery of two rifles and shotgun ammunition from a residential address.
“A 29-year-old patched Mongrel Mob member faces charges of unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition when he appears in the Gisborne District Court on Monday (December 11).
“On Wednesday, police and the Armed Offenders Squad apprehended a 21-year-old Mongrel Mob member at a separate Gisborne address.
“The man had outstanding warrants for his arrest and has been charged with aggravated burglary with a firearm, wounding with intent to injure, discharging a firearm with intent, threatening to kill, threatening to cause grievous bodily harm, and demanding with intent to steal,” Det Sgt Hunter said.
“A woman at the same address, who is a gang associate, was arrested and charged with possession of methamphetamine and breaching court bail conditions.
“We would like to remind members of the community, if you see any unlawful or suspicious activity, please call Police at 111 if it’s happening now, or on 105 if it’s after the fact.
“You can also make a 105 report online at 105.police.govt.nz”
