Two youths and four adults are before the courts following the execution of search warrants in Ōpōtiki on Friday.

Seven search warrants were executed by Eastern Bay police as part of an operation targeting gang-related disorder events that resulted in serious injury recently.

During the search warrants, police focused on a core group of young people alleged to be attempting to establish new chapters of gangs within Ōpōtiki.

Police made six arrests and laid numerous charges, including participation in an organised criminal group. A stolen car was also recovered.

Two youths appeared in the Whakatāne District Court on Saturday charged with participation in an organised criminal group, rioting, wounding/injures with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, and gang insignia.

Two men, aged 20 and 26, appeared the same day on charges including participation in an organised criminal group and rioting.

Another two men, aged 24 and 26, are facing charges including participation in an organised criminal group and rioting, and will appear in court at a later date.

Inspector Jamie Keenleyside said this was the result of ongoing teamwork from multiple Eastern Bay and Bay of Plenty district teams.

“We are continuing to focus on the criminal activity of gangs in the Ōpōtiki and greater Eastern Bay of Plenty area.

“We work hard to disrupt illegal gang activity and want to ensure our communities are and remain safe.

“Anyone with information on any criminal offending should report it immediately, anonymously if that suits.”

Call 111 if the offending is happening now, or for non-urgent matters contact 105, either online or over the phone, with as much information as safely possible. Non-urgent anonymous reports can also be made through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.