The New Zealand government has unveiled new powers and tools for police to use in the fight against gang violence and intimidation, which has escalated to a point where some have compared the situation to South Africa.
Police Minister Chris Hipkins said the recent brazen gang activities were “totally unacceptable,” and New Zealand residents deserved better.
Some new powers include the ability to find and seize weapons from gang members during a conflict and impounding vehicles under an expanded range of offences.
Work to strengthen a sector-wide approach to youth crime is also in progress.
“Police asked for legislative changes that will give them more tools to crack down on violent offending and other criminal activities,” he said in a media release. “We have listened and will introduce a package of changes that target this activity as an omnibus Amendment Bill as soon as possible.”…