In an effort to curb gang activity in Canterbury, police have made 30 arrests this week, including Mongols gang members, their associates, and individuals previously sought by authorities.
The intensified operation, led by Canterbury District Commander Superintendent Tony Hill, has focused on high-visibility patrols at key locations, including a gang event held over the weekend.
Law enforcement has stepped up its presence on Canterbury roads and at Christchurch Airport to monitor attendees, many of whom travelled from outside of the region.
Five arrests were made overnight. Police also uncovered a cannabis cultivation operation during a search in Aranui, where two women, aged 37 and 30, were taken into custody.
Both women are scheduled to appear in Christchurch District Court on Monday, facing outstanding warrants and drug-related charges. In another search in Islington, police seized a sawn-off shotgun and three air rifles.
Hill assured the public that police would maintain an increased presence throughout Christchurch and wider Canterbury to address any further disturbances.
Residents with immediate safety concerns are encouraged to call 111, while those with non-urgent information about unlawful activity can report it online or through Crime Stoppers at 0800 555 111.
