Police have recovered guns, some loaded, and made a raft of arrests with seven people now facing gun and drug charges.
Some of the guns and ammunition police recovered during their operation. Photo: Supplied / NZ police
Five men and two women have been arrested.
Police said that since the operation began on 8 December, 21 weapons had been seized including a high-powered MSSA style assault rifle and numerous sawn-off weapons and a revolver, several of which were loaded with ammunition.
Some of the weapons that have been seized. Photo: Supplied / NZ police
Methamphetamine, cannabis and $26,000 in cash were also found at one property.
During the operation search warrants were executed across the Hawke's Bay, Raupunga & Gisborne.
Eastern Investigations Manager Detective Inspector Jones said some of the addresses were linked to members of Black Power and the Mongrel Mob.
Jones said the finds highlighted the apparent ease of access by criminals including gang members to possess firearms and ammunition.
"We want to send a clear message that such criminal activity won't be tolerated. It causes immeasurable harm in our communities - harm that we are committed to reducing."
Those charged include:
- A 50-year-old man who has appeared in the Wairoa District Court on firearms charges
- A 47-year-old man and a 45-year-old woman, both from Waipukurau, charged with drug dealing offences relating to methamphetamine
- A 35-year-old man was charged with supplying methamphetamine and police expect to lay more charges
- A 58-year-old Hastings man who was arrested on drug dealing charges relating to methamphetamine
- A 49-year-old Eskdale man was arrested for theft and being unlawfully on a property and a 37-year-old Bayview woman was arrested for possession of methamphetamine and firearms charges. Both are due to appear in the Napier District Court today
Police said they were relieved to have recovered the firearms and were continuing with their inquiries on how the offenders came into possession of them.
As such, they said they may make further arrests and may lay more charges.
Police said they would also continue talking to gang and community leaders as part of their efforts to prevent future violence.