"Would-be" Rebels dealt swift blow yesterday

Rebel gang members trying to gain a foothold in New Zealand were dealt a severe blow yesterday with a number of them arrested and charged in a series of raids around the North Island.

Detective Superintendent Brett Kane of OFCANZ said members of the gang setting up in New Zealand would barely have had enough time to wear their new patches before Police came calling.

"The operation was co-ordinated by Central District Police but involved warrants being executed in five police districts across the North Island.

Mr Kane said it was another example of a well- coordinated operation by Police. Several other agencies, including OFCANZ investigators were involved.

"Significant amounts of cash, drugs and assets were seized as part of the operation.

"This has disrupted the work of a serious organised criminal network which is peddling the misery of methamphetamine in our communities. It has also dealt a blow to a would-be New Zealand branch of the Australian Rebels Motorcycle Gang."

"We said we wouldn't be putting the welcome mat out for them and we will continue to thwart their efforts to set up here."

Members of several other gangs will also face charges as a result of yesterday's operation.

"New Zealand communities are seeing the benefits of enforcement agencies becoming more strategic and collaborating in the bid to disrupt and dismantle organised crime."