Waikato Police are seeking the public's help in locating a gang member who is wanted in connection to a violent standoff in south Hamilton on Monday.
Detective Senior Sergeant Carl Moon of the Hamilton CIB said six warrants to arrest have been issued for 35-year-old Hamilton gang member Shannon Quintinn WATENE.
"WATENE is wanted in connection to an incident in Melville about 4pm on Monday where the occupants of an address were confronted by three males believed to be members or associates of the Mongrel Mob.
"Violent threats were made and the situation deteriorated to the point where firearms were presented at the victims however the offenders fled when Police were called."
Mr Moon said some good initial inquiries by responding Police identified two properties of interest and as a result officers supported by members of the Waikato Armed Offenders Squad searched two homes in the suburb of Fairfield yesterday.
"One address was on Balloch St and the other on Tennyson Ave, as a result of our enquiries firearms were recovered and two men were arrested.
"Those two men, aged 18 and 48-years-old are appearing in the Hamilton District Court today on assault with intent to rob, unlawful possession of firearms and participating in an organised criminal group charges."
While happy to have made these arrests Mr Moon said it was imperative WATENE was located and the public is warned not to approach him.
"A male Maori 178cm tall of medium to muscular build with distinctive tattoos on the top half of his face , WATENE is a patched Mongrel Mob member with an extensive and violent criminal history.
"Obviously Police are taking Monday's incident very seriously and we warn the public that WATENE should not be approached and anyone seeing him is urged to contact 111 straight away."
Mr Moon said anyone with information on WATENE'S whereabouts is asked to contact him at the Hamilton Central Police Station on 07 858 6200.
Alternatively, information can be left anonymously with the independent Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
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