Police have arrested six patched Mongrel Mob members and seized drugs, ammunition, gang patches and gang regalia following a series of search warrants in Kawerau.

Seven warrants were executed across the town on Tuesday by the Gang Disruption Unit as part of an operation targeting alleged breaches of the Gangs Act 2024, police said.

The investigation was launched after the men were allegedly seen wearing gang patches on a public road outside a gathering at a private address.

During the operation, officers seized five gang patches, gang regalia, quantities of cannabis and synthetic cannabis, MDMA, cocaine and ammunition.

As a result, six men – all patched Mongrel Mob members – were arrested.

A 29-year-old is due to appear in the Whakatāne District Court on September 18 facing charges including prohibited display of gang insignia in public, possession of synthetic cannabis for supply, possession of ecstasy, cannabis and cocaine.

A 33-year-old is due to appear in the Whakatāne District Court on September 1 charged with prohibited display of gang insignia in public and breaching a gang insignia prohibition order.

Four other men, aged 29, 30, 35 and 55, are also due in the Whakatāne District Court on September 1 charged with prohibited display of gang insignia in public.

One of the men was also found in breach of a gang insignia prohibition order after gang insignia and regalia were located at his home.

Eastern Bay of Plenty Sergeant Jonny Lovell said the arrests were a great result that came down to the brilliant teamwork from multiple Eastern Bay of Plenty work groups, tactical teams, and dog units.

“Police take breaches to the gang insignia legislation seriously and this operation is a testament to our commitment to this issue. Anyone breaching the legislation can expect action from us, whether it be at the time of the offence or through a warrant after the fact.”

Lovell said police would continue to “work hard” to disrupt illegal gang activity.

“Anyone with information on any criminal offending or breaches to the act should contact police.”