Police have made significant arrests and seized firearms as part of an ongoing operation targeting gang members and associates.

Canterbury District Commander, Superintendent Tony Hill, said the operation aimed to curb gang-related activity in the region.

He described police efforts to make their presence known at a gang event in Canterbury over the weekend, with large numbers of officers stationed at key locations.

Hill said, “We continue to keep the pressure on gang members, associates, and those attempting to evade the justice system.”

According to Hill, most of the attendees, who travelled from outside the district, are now leaving.

Police increased their presence on roads and at Christchurch Airport in response.

“Five arrests were made overnight, bringing the total number of arrests this week to 30,” Hill said, adding that those arrested included patched members of the Mongols gang, their associates, and others previously sought by police who are not linked to the Mongols.

A cannabis cultivation operation was discovered during a search warrant executed at a property in Aranui over the weekend.

Hill said enquiries are ongoing following a second warrant executed in Islington, where a sawn-off shotgun and three air rifles were located.

The two women arrested in the Aranui search, aged 37 and 30, are scheduled to appear in Christchurch District Court tomorrow on outstanding warrants and drug-related charges.

Hill said the public could expect to see an increased police presence around Christchurch and the wider Canterbury district as police continue to monitor movements and respond as required.

Anyone with public safety concerns is encouraged to call Police on 111.

For those with information regarding unlawful activity that does not pose an immediate risk to safety, Hill recommended filing a report online or contacting Crime Stoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111.