The Gangs Act, implemented in November, has successfully banned gang patches in public spaces and empowered police to prevent gang members from associating with each other.
Since its enforcement, police have filed 337 charges for gang insignia violations, confiscated 76 patches, and seized 67 firearms. However, there have been no dispersal notices or non-consorting charges issued.
Over 3000 charges have been brought against gang members post the crackdown, encompassing various offenses such as serious violence, drug-related crimes, and firearms violations.
Police Minister Mark Mitchell highlighted the intimidation tactics previously employed by gang members using their patches and noted a significant reduction in their presence on streets since the implementation of the Gangs Act.
Minister Mitchell emphasized that the legislation aimed at enhancing public safety has achieved its objective effectively.
Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith mentioned that the Gangs Act aligns with the government's targets of reducing serious violent crime victims by 20,000 by 2029 and curbing serious repeat youth offending by 15%.
Police Commissioner Richard Chambers acknowledged the overall compliance of gangs with the law, attributing it to pre-implementation meetings where police clarified enforcement strategies and encouraged gangs to make responsible decisions.
He affirmed that the policing of gangs will continue to be a top priority to maintain public safety and law enforcement standards.
Reference from News: More than 300 charges over new gang patch law