Four gang members have been arrested following a police operation targeting organised criminal activity in Christchurch.

Detective Sergeant Kate Taylor said police executed search warrants at five addresses on Thursday, locating and arresting four people.

“We also located and seized firearms and ammunition from one of the addresses.”

Taylor said the arrests followed significant investigative work involving several police teams.

“This operation reflects our ongoing commitment to holding offenders accountable and disrupting organised criminal activity within our communities.”

She said community safety remained a priority for police.

“We are committed to ensuring Christchurch remains a safe place for people to live, work and visit.”

Four men are due to appear in the Christchurch District Court on Friday.

Two men, aged 23 and 32, are charged with unlawful possession of a firearm and participating in an organised criminal group.

Another 32 year old man is charged with unlawful possession of a firearm, participating in an organised criminal group and aggravated robbery causing grievous bodily harm.

A 36 year old man faces multiple charges including unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition, unlawful possession of a prohibited firearm and prohibited magazine, participating in an organised criminal group and aggravated robbery causing grievous bodily harm.

Taylor thanked members of the public who had provided information to police.

“We wish to thank the public for their ongoing support and information that they provide to Police, ensuring we can hold offenders accountable.”