Five people connected to the Headhunters have been arrested in connection with arson and ram-raiding incidents at several businesses in the coastal town of Ōrewa, north of Auckland.
Police carried out multiple warrants across the region as part of Operation Governor, investigating attacks in Ōrewa. The group’s ages range from 15 to 42, and a total of 23 charges have been laid.
Inspector John Thornley, Waitematā North Area Commander, said the operation targeted offending that occurred between September and early November. The crackdown followed a deliberately set fire at Sunflour Café in Ōrewa, which destroyed the cafe’s interior just before 11:30 p.m. on 1 November. This incident capped a string of targeted attacks on several businesses along the town’s main street dating back to September.
Inspector Thornley noted that Crime Investigation Branch staff worked diligently to identify those responsible, and their efforts led to the charges being laid. Police are still seeking one offender who remains outstanding.
The accused are expected to appear in the North Shore District Court on Wednesday. Inspector Thornley described the arrests as a positive outcome for the local community, adding that it is troubling when a close-knit community endures a spate of such incidents in a short period. Police say they will continue pursuing anyone who condones or participates in this behavior.
Acknowledgment is given to individuals who assisted with the inquiries in recent weeks.
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