Black Power Member Arrested Following Assault After Waikato Burnouts
A 24-year-ancient man linked to the Black Power gang has been arrested in connection with a serious assault that occurred in Mātangi, Waikato, over the weekend. The arrest follows an incident where two people were injured after attempting to address disruptive behavior involving a vehicle performing burnouts on Saturday night, police confirmed.
Incident Details
Around 8 p.m. On Saturday, the victims approached the occupants of a dark-colored Ford Falcon on Marychurch Road. According to authorities, three individuals exited the vehicle and assaulted the pair, resulting in their hospitalization in moderate condition. 1News reported on the incident Sunday.
Police Response
Police have described the attack as “cowardly” and have vowed zero tolerance for such violent acts. Inspector Andrea McBeth stated, “We understand the frustration of residents where we are seeing anti-social road user behaviour and for these people to head one step further and attack people trying to speak with them, is unacceptable.” Archyde reported McBeth also stated, “We are extremely lucky that we are not dealing with more serious consequences here. There is zero tolerance for this violent offending.”
Investigation and Further Arrests
The arrested individual is scheduled to appear in the Hamilton District Court tomorrow. Police are continuing their investigation and anticipate further arrests in connection with the assault. Authorities have released images of the Ford Falcon involved and are appealing to the public for any information regarding the vehicle or its occupants. RNZ reports that anyone with information can contact police via 105 or Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111, referencing file number 260301/0526.
Black Power Gang
The Black Power gang was formed in Wellington around 1970 and has a significant presence throughout New Zealand and Australia, with members predominantly of Māori and Pasifika descent. Wikipedia details the gang’s origins as a response to rival gangs.