Less than one-quarter of a percent of New Zealand's population, but responsible for 18% of violent crime.
The New Zealand government has launched a crackdown on gang activity, with new laws coming into effect at midnight. Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith and Police Minister Mark Mitchell announced the move, stating that gangs will no longer be able to operate above the law.
Key measures include banning gang insignia in public places, allowing courts to issue non-consorting orders, and giving police more power to stop gang members from associating and communicating. Courts will also place greater emphasis on gang membership when sentencing offenders.
The new laws are aimed at tackling the significant contribution of gangs to violent crime in New Zealand, with gang members making up just 0.25% of the adult population but linked to 18% of all serious violent crime. The government has committed to using the new powers and tools to disrupt gang activity and keep Kiwis safe.
The move comes after a period of significant growth in gang membership during the previous Labour government, with Mr Mitchell criticizing their approach as "offender-oriented" and failing to stem the rise of gangs.