Police seize weapons after shots fired in Wairoa gang confrontation
Police in Wairoa seized a shotgun, ammunition and two molotov cocktails after responding to a gang confrontation where at least half a dozen shots were fired in the town.
Senior Sergeant Tony Bates, Wairoa Area Response Manager, says police responded to multiple calls of gang disorder and reports that shots had been fired on Black Street at around 7.30am on Thursday last week.
The weapons were seized later the same day during the search of a Rata Street address executed as a result of the incident.
Senior Sergeant Tony Bates says at least six shots were fired on Black Street – including some a short time after the initial report to police – and the area was cordoned by police.
“This behaviour is completely unacceptable and has no place in our community.”
An investigation into the shooting incidents and the items recovered during the search was ongoing.
“Police are committed to holding those responsible to account and removing illegal weapons from our streets,” Senior Sergeant Tony Bates says.
“I would also like to reassure members of the public that this is believed to be an isolated event involving people known to each other.”
Anyone with information that can assist this investigation is encouraged to contact Police on 105 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
