Source: New Zealand Police
Five illegal firearms, ammunition, methamphetamine, and a stolen generator have been seized and one person arrested following searches in Ruatoria and Tokomaru Bay last week.
Detective Senior Sergeant John Love says the operation was in response to reports of firearms used in the area.
“Gisborne residents have had enough of illegal firearms. This is very much intertwined with the gang members that reside here and with that comes other unlawful activity.”
During the search in Ruatoria, Police located a loaded firearm in the lounge and a second firearm in a shed on a property occupied by a patched Black Power gang member.
At a second address in Tokomaru, Police recovered a further three firearms, with one identified as stolen.
A 32-year-old man has been charged with unlawful possession of firearms, unlawful possession of ammunition, and possession of methamphetamine. He’ll reappear on 27 October at Gisborne District Court.
“Police are committed to keeping the community safe from illegal activity and to ensure everyone is complying with the law,” Detective Senior Sergeant Love.
Please report any information about suspicious or illegal activity to 111 if it’s happening now or 105 if it’s after the fact.
Information can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers via 0800 555 111.
ENDS
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/10/16/guns-and-drugs-seized-gang-member-arrested-in-gisborne/