Police in Hawke’s Bay town of Wairoa are deploying extra officers to address a gang brawl after a rugby game.
The incident began as an altercation between teenagers and escalated into a public brawl after adults, including members of the Mongrel Mob, became involved.
At least two people were moderately injured, and two were struck by a vehicle. Acting Tairāwhiti Area Commander Inspector Darren Paki revealed that around two dozen people involved in the fight have been identified, and arrests are expected.
Most of those involved are gang members and associates of varying ages, but all are old enough to know what is acceptable.
The police will be clearly communicating with gangs over the coming days and weeks, ensuring that gang members are held accountable for the incident and any other offending they may be involved in.
Wairoa Mayor Craig Little expressed disappointment and disbelief following the brawl, stating that the leadership of these gangs should have intervened and stopped the violence.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 105 or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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