Six Rebels Motorcycle Gang members have been arrested in Auckland following a spate of arsons earlier this year amid increasing tensions between the Rebels and King Cobra gang.
Cash and drugs seized during a police operation against the Rebels MC gang. Photo: NZ Police
A 34-year-old man has been charged with participating in an organised crime group, and supplying methamphetamine.
Five other men have each been charged with being part of an organised group.
All six are expected to appear in Counties Manukau District Court today.
Two other men - both 27 - who were already before the courts face additional drugs and firearm charges.
In statement released today, police said the arrests were part of Operation Ryleigh, which commenced in July after tensions between Rebels MC and King Cobra gangs saw a series of arsons carried out in Auckland.
"As a result of this investigation Police identified further alleged serious criminal offending, in addition to the arsons, including the possession and supply of methamphetamine and the unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition," Detective Inspector Aaron Pascoe said.
Six addresses in East Tāmaki, Māngere, Clendon Park, Papakura and Manurewa were searched today.
Pascoe said while investigations into the arsons were ongoing, the arrests showed police commitment to stamping out criminal offending by organised crime groups.
"All the gangs are interested in are the profits so they can lead an outwardly lavish style, they have no interest in the damage left behind by this drug they continue to peddle," he said.