Gang under scrutiny

Police have arrested one person, seized and impounded seven bikes and issued 130 infringements following a road policing operation to monitor a gang convoy taking place in Auckland over the weekend.

Revving engines filled the air and curious residents watched as dozens of Head Hunters set off on a cross-city motorcycle run to mark the 20th anniversary of the gang’s most influential chapter.

Meanwhile, police kept a highly visible presence across parts of central and northern Auckland and undertook a significant road policing operation.

Around a dozen police officers in eight patrol cars set up checkpoints east and west of the East chapter’s Marua Rd pad in Mt Wellington, and on the adjacent Burt/Rutland roads intersection as around 50 patched gang members left on motorcycles about 11am.

Area Commander for Auckland East Inspector Jim Wilson said every rider was stopped at the checkpoints and driverlicensing and vehicle compliance were checked.

“Through strong and deliberate police tactics we were able to deter high-risk driving behaviours and encourage enforcement around unlawful gang behaviour and intimidation,” Wilson said.

He said police were reviewing CCTV footage as part of their inquiries.

Several bikes were impounded for a variety of rider offences, including driving while disqualified and driving while suspended, vehicle plates have been seized and around 100 infringement notices are to be issued.

On Saturday, police in an unmarked car could be seen taking photos of gang members gathered outside the pad.

The Eagle police helicopter also circled above but the gang members weren’t stopped as they headed east on Marua Rd bound for, according to sources, Puhoi, north of Auckland. The motorcycle run was part of celebrations marking the chapter’s 20th anniversary.