Wairoa area response manager Senior Sergeant Maui Aben said it's time to re-look at how to deal with gang tensions in the district. Photo / Supplied
Wairoa area response manager Senior Sergeant Maui Aben said it's time to re-look at how to deal with gang tensions in the district. Photo / Supplied
Additional police forces have been brought in to help address ongoing violence and tension between Mongrel Mob and Black Power chapters in Wairoa, with five firearms incidents reported in the past month.
Police have launched operation "Atlas", to focus on the disruption and prevention of organised crime and gang-related offending across the Eastern Police district, with a particular focus on Wairoa.
Since June 3 this year, there have been five recorded incidents in which firearms have been discharged at homes in the wider Wairoa area.
A Wairoa man received gunshot injuries earlier this month, and in an incident last week, two children were asleep in a Raupunga house when it was fired upon from a vehicle.
"Thankfully in that case these tamariki were not injured," Wairoa area response manager Senior Sergeant Maui Aben.
"But our message to those responsible for this offending, and the ongoing tensions is simple – community safety comes first, and we will hold you to account for your actions."
Rising gang tensions resulting in increased firearms incidents have seen additional police brought in to Wairoa. Photo / NZME
Operation Atlas was launched in Wairoa last week, with additional police staff from around the country brought in to support Wairoa staff.
Police wouldn't specify the exact number of new staff.
"While these extra staff will remain with us for the next several weeks carrying out disruption and prevention activities, we do understand this is a long-term issue that requires long-term solutions."
Aben said the reasons for rising tensions between gangs were complex and had been ongoing for some time.
"We know we can't make lasting change without our community partnering with us.
"It's time to do something different to ensure different results," he said.
Police called a meeting earlier this year with Wairoa community and iwi leaders, and stakeholders to have an open discussion about the ongoing gang-related issues, and the effects violence and drugs are having on the wider community.
Police are also working with key community and government agencies on a long-term plan focused on community safety in Wairoa, Aben said.
This included Wairoa District Council.
"This is not a police problem. It is a gang problem and as a community we are behind police as we jointly work towards solutions," Wairoa Mayor Craig Little said.
The additional police would be a big help, but it was about the community co-operating, he said.
Wairoa Mayor Craig Little said rising gang tensions weren't just a police problem, it was one for the community itself. Photo / NZME
Little said the community was disappointed that a few were letting the community down.
He said stable community safety will only come with manaakitanga for all.
"This means we all have an inherent responsibility to support and care for each other through the highs and lows.
"All of us, not just the continued tireless efforts of some individuals, social service providers and other entities in our community."
Police wouldn't comment on any arrests resulting of the operation yet.
Any this information can be provided via 105 quoting Operation Atlas/ File number 210616/4442. Information can also be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
