A Black Power member in Christchurch was arrested yesterday after allegedly displaying gang insignia in public, marking one of several enforcement actions under the new Gang Act.

Police were called to Grove Road in Addington around 10:40am following reports of an altercation between a man and a woman.

The 31-year-old man, who was seen wearing a Mangu Kaha patch, retreated into a nearby address before being arrested after a brief stand-off.

His gang patch was seized, and he appeared in the Christchurch District Court today on charges of displaying gang insignia in a public place and assault with intent to injure.

Assistant Commissioner Paul Basham said police are pleased with overall compliance with the new laws, which make it illegal to display gang insignia in public places.

“The fact we have taken a number of different prosecutions proves that Police will not hesitate to enforce these laws, and serves as a reminder to those considering wearing or displaying gang insignia to continue making the right choices.”

The Christchurch arrest was part of Operation Nickel, a national crackdown on breaches of the Gang Act.

Other incidents included arrests in Counties Manukau, Turangi, Mangakino, and Taumarunui.

These arrests involved various offences, including firearms incidents, assaults, and drug cultivation. Items such as gang patches, hoodies, and caps featuring gang insignia were confiscated in several locations.

In one case, a Mongrel Mob member entered the Taumarunui Police Station wearing gang insignia, prompting the seizure of his cap and a summons to court. In another, a Mongrel Mob member in Manurewa was arrested after allegedly discharging a firearm at another person, with a .22 firearm and gang-related clothing seized.