Conflict between junior and senior members of a Nomad gang in the Horowhenua is believed to be behind a number of incidents in the area including a shooting in Foxton on Thursday (11 June) and an arson attack on a house in Levin last night (15 June).
Police have been made aware of five incidents to date, all of which have occurred since the death of Dennis Hines, the founder of the Nomads in Horowhenua and Otaki.
In only four of the five cases has information been provided directly to the police, an assault at an address in Levin on Sunday morning, a confrontation possibly involving a firearm at a another address in Levin on Sunday night, the Foxton shooting on the day of Dennis Hines' tangi and the arson in Kinross Street, Levin last night. Indirectly police have heard of another assault in Levin on Wednesday.
Detective Senior Sergeant Marc Hercock, who is leading the investigation into these incidents, said: "There is a wealth of information being brought to our attention. It is fair to say that attempting to validate what is fact and what is fiction over the past few days has been no easy task. What is also proving unhelpful is the various routes through which we are receiving the information. Often it is reaching us third hand through the community and even through the media.
"For us to effectively investigate these offences, put a stop to the apparent conflict and prevent the situation from escalating it is vital that anyone that has information relevant to the investigation contacts us direct. We fully appreciate that in some cases people may be reluctant to become involved which is why we have mechanisms by which people can provide information anonymously but it is important, anonymous or otherwise that it comes to us direct.
"This is a community issue. The people within this gang are mainly born and bred in the Horowhenua and are not likely to be going anywhere anytime soon. If there are people in the community who have relevant information and that will help the focus of the investigation I urge them to come forward."
Police are not prepared to disclose any information at this stage relating to the individuals believed to be either involved in this series of incidents whether victim or offender.
There are additional police resources deployed in the area to assist with the investigation and ensure public safety.
Media enquiries should be referred to Communications Manager Kim Perks on 06 351 2546 or 027 234 8256.