Concerned members of the public called Police during an altercation involving men with gang connections in Ashburton at around 3.30pm yesterday afternoon (8 April 2015). There were reports of a firearm being involved.
One man was arrested after the vehicle he was in rammed another vehicle. The other occupant, the driver, of a black SUV fled the scene.
Canterbury Police AOS, Dog and Handler were deployed as a precaution and worked with Officers based in Ashburton while inquiries were carried out at a number of residential properties.
Residents reported sightings of the vehicle to Police as the driver made his way across town initially from the Allenton area into the Racecourse area. The driver abandoned the vehicle in a residential street and fled the scene on foot.
Canterbury Police arrested a second man at a residential address some hours later without incident.
One of the men, a 23 year old Ashburton resident, has been charged with a number of charges including Aggravated Robbery, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, Theft, Dangerous driving and other driving related matters. He will appear in Christchurch District Court today (9 April 2015). A 31 year old local man is due appear in Ashburton District Court on 13 April 2015 charged with Possession of an Offensive Weapon.
During April and May 2015 Canterbury Police are undertaking a District wide Prevention based operation named Operation Focus targeting drugs, gangs and organised crime. The main aim of the operation is to reduce victimisation caused by drugs, gangs and organised crime. This incorporates all aspects of offending, including those supplying drugs, those committing crime to fund drug habits and those purchasing stolen property illegally.
Canterbury Police would like to thank the community for their help in resolving the gang-related incident that occurred in Ashburton tonight.
It only takes one call to Police or Crimestoppers to stop crime and Police urge people who know anyone who is involved in drug use or criminal offending to encourage them to break their habit and seek help.
Anyone with information or wanting assistance should contact Ashburton Station on 03 307 8400 or anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
If you, your friend or family member wants assistance with drug addiction, Police encourage them to contact the Drug and Alcohol Help Line 0800 787 797, e-mail ada@adanz.org.nz
ENDS
Issued by: Lisa-Marie Brooks, District Communications Manager, Canterbury Police District. Mobile: 021 942 404