Two more gangs will be subject to stricter laws from February 2025.
Police Minister Mark Mitchell has announced that the "TwoEight Brotherhood" and "Bloods" will be added to the Gangs Act list, bringing the total number of identified gangs to 37. The move aims to disrupt gang activity and intimidation in communities by prohibiting public display of their insignia, issuing police dispersal notices, and court-issued non-consorting orders.
Repeat offenders may face a five-year ban on possessing gang insignia, while greater weight will be given to gang membership at sentencing, allowing courts to impose harsher punishments. The government has shown its commitment to tackling gangs by backing police with new laws and powers. The message is clear: breaking the law will result in consequences.
The inclusion of these gangs comes into effect on 3 February 2025, following an order approved by Cabinet on 16 December. The criteria for listing as an identified gang include a common name or identifying signs, being active in New Zealand, and members committing serious offences within the past five years.