Several arrests have been made in Whangārei as part of an investigation on ram raids and youth-related offending.
Photo: RNZ / Cole Eastham-Farrelly
So far, 10 people, the majority with crip gang affiliations, have been arrested on 32 charges, including burglary, unlawful possession of ammunition and demanding with intent to rob.
Five people have been referred to Youth Aid in relation to commercial burglaries and dishonesty-related offences.
The police recovered stolen clothing, jewellery, and a jet ski worth approximately $30,000.
The arrests come as police step up enforcement and disruption of unlawful gang activity across the country, with Operation Cobalt rolling out.
In a statement, Detective Senior Sergeant Rob Huys said further arrests could not be ruled out as the investigation progresses.
"Police continue to step up enforcement and the disruption of unlawful gang activity across the country as Operation Cobalt rolls out.
"Our message to those involved is clear - we have zero tolerance for any violence, gang, and drug activities."
Police enquiries have also lead to three people being arrested for their involvement in unrelated burglaries at residential developments in Whangārei.