A man associated with the Killer Beez gang has been arrested in Christchurch as part of the police's ongoing gang crackdown.
File photo. Photo: RNZ / Diego Opatowski
Police said they also seized a sawn-off shotgun and significant amounts of ammunition and cannabis.
Operation Cobalt was launched in response to a turf war between the Killer Beez and Tribesmen, which led to a spree of shootings.
The 38-year-old man was arrested at a property in Easrnslaw Crescent, in the suburb of Bryndwr, and has been charged with breaching bail, unlawful possessing a firearm and ammunition, and possession of cannabis for supply.
Detective Sergeant Tim Sterne of Christchurch CIB said police were committed to ensuring communities and whānau were safe from drugs and violent behaviour.
"This arrest ensures that an armed, dangerous individual with gang links can no longer pose a risk to those around him."
Detective Inspector Scott Anderson of Christchurch CIB said police had "zero tolerance for any gang-related violence and drug offending".
"Under Operation Cobalt, we will continue to target the unlawful use of firearms by gangs in our communities."
Anyone with relevant information is aksed to contact police.