There have been no arrests after the firearms incident at a luxury Auckland hotel yesterday, but police have confirmed it is linked to raids on both the Head Hunters and Mongols.
Photo: RNZ / Simon Rogers
Armed police swarmed the upmarket Sofitel Hotel on the city's Viaduct yesterday morning after shots were fired in the lobby.
Police Minister Poto Williams said yesterday that two people had been taken into custody, but police said while they had spoken to a number of people, no arrests have been made.
Police have also confirmed this morning that the case is connected to the arrest of five men - all members or associate of the Mongols - following search warrants in Murrays Bay earlier this week.
The men have been charged with the unlawful possession of explosives, while one was also charged with unlawful possession of a pistol.
Police said it was also believed that yesterday's incident was linked to another incident where shots were fired at the Head Hunters gang pad on Marua Road, Mt Wellington last weekend.
They have issued a warning to both groups about the "reckless, dangerous and unlawful behaviour".
"While nobody was injured in this incident, what we saw at the Sofitel yesterday was extremely concerning.
Members of the public were present and their safety was put at risk.
"Police will not tolerate these crimes and we have a large team working around the clock to ensure we identify and arrest all of those involved."