Authorities clash over enforcing gang patch ban

Photo / Wanganui Chronicle

Wanganui authorities already disagree over the enforcement of a new ban on gang patches, as gang members prepare to march the city's streets in protest.

Wanganui District Council banned gang insignia from the city at its meeting yesterday, and the bylaw came into force at midnight.

The bylaw gives police powers to fine patchwearers $2000 and to take their gang insignia from them.

Black Power was planning a mass ride through Wanganui around lunchtime today to protest the bylaw.

Member and rally organiser Denis O'Reilly told 3 News the council's issues with gangs had nothing to do with their patches.

Acting area commander Inspector Greg Hudson told NZPA any arrests today would "depend on the circumstances".

Police would take a commonsense approach and enforce the bylaw on a case-by-case basis, he said.

But Mayor Michael Laws told Radio New Zealand gang members who wore their gang patches in protest today would be arrested.

"If there is [a protest] and they're wearing their gang patches, we'd be delighted to arrest them.

"Honestly, Wanganui is going to become a very, very uncomfortable place if you're a gang member or gang associate from now on. And we're delighted it's going to be ... uncomfortable for them."

Mr Laws described the bylaw as "a triumph for decency and democracy".

"We are the first city and council in New Zealand to say `enough' to the predations and petty terrorism of gangs.

"Now it is time for the rest of New Zealand to follow our lead. We don't have to put up with these criminals who are intent upon undermining our society. They must not be tolerated."

- NZPA