In a fervent critique of the National’s proposed gang policies, Sonny Fatupaito, leader of the Waikato Mongrel Mob Kingdom, is voicing his concern, arguing that the policies are out of line, infringing upon human rights, and setting the stage for a mental battlefield. Fatupaito feels it to be a portent of upheaval. Speaking out about the destructive potential of broad-based punishment, he likens it to incarceration.
The contentious dispersal notice policy fuels his concern, granting law enforcement the authority to issue seven-day non-association orders to suspected gang members. Fatupaito contends this denies individuals their rights to social participation, such as attending funerals, birthdays, and other key events, particularly for those with kin in gang organizations.
The National’s policy framework goes beyond dispersal orders. It recommends elevating gang affiliation to an aggravating factor during sentencing, encouraging harsher legal outcomes for convicted gang members. Other proposed regulations include outlawing gang insignias worn in public, expanding police powers for ‘no-warrant’ searches for firearms, disruption of communication among gang members, and limitations on their public gatherings.
Despite the sweeping changes, Fatupaito doesn’t see the banning of gang symbols as detrimental to his faction. It is their shared sentiment that matters, he states, but concedes that others might experience distress. He advocates for equality and freedom of expression, implying that the proposed policies infringe upon those rights.
While Fatupaito acknowledges the potential negative impact of these policies, he indicates that a dialogue with the authorities remains a possibility. He speaks of the progress made in recent years and emphasizes his faction’s willingness to engage in open conversation, urging politicians to involve them in the process.
However, National’s police spokesperson Mark Mitchell stands firm, stating that threats from gang members will not be tolerated. He clearly outlines the party’s stance: a life in gangs, perpetuating a cycle of drug abuse and societal detriment, would be increasingly difficult under a National-led Government. He urges gang members to abandon their current paths, offering assistance to those willing to reintegrate into society.
Fatupaito, in a reflective tone, worries about the brethren of gang members who may be affected and fears that the relationship between local police and certain gang factions might be strained.
“Start taking care of your people and educate them about the proposed policies,” is Fatupaito’s powerful message to other gang leaders.
The Act, partnering with National in government, proposes Gang Control Orders – a further crackdown on gang activities including enhanced police power to confiscate assets tied to illegal firearms. Both parties would use the National Gang List for implementing these policies, a mechanism criticized by Dr Jarrod Gilbert, a gang expert, as inherently flawed.
Paula Ormsby, leader of the Wāhine Toa women’s chapter, echoes Fatupaito’s concerns, pointing out that the ambiguous nature of dispersal notices leaves them open to misinterpretation. She contends that the policies might render practicing their culture illicit and criticizes a proposal which could prohibit gang members from associating with each other. To her, this has the potential of splintering families, causing discord and division.
Ormsby believes the Labour Government made headway in their approach to dealing with gangs but fears that the National Government is on a path to reversing all progress.
