An insight into how gangs extort funds through intimidation surfaced in a Hawkes Bay proceeds of crime application with police evidence of Mongrel Mob gang members levied to attend a tangi and threatened with fines and a beating if they failed to attend.
This evidence followed police investigations into activities of Mathew Philip Karetu, described as national president of the Barbarians chapter of the Mongrel Mob. In December 2023, he ordered members attend and contribute fifty dollars each to an upcoming tangi. Those failing to attend were threatened with a $1000 fine and a beating.
This evidence was put before the High Court as part of a Criminal Proceeds (Recovery) Act asset seizure application after police found in October 2024 about $76,700 cash in a bedroom occupied by Mr Karetu at a half-way house in the Auckland suburb of Manurewa.
This facility accommodates people released from prison. Mr Karetu was on electronically monitored bail at the Grace Foundation half-way house, with a 24 hour curfew.
Justice McQueen ordered the cash restrained for twelve months, pending further police action.
The court was told Police had earlier seized $70,000 cash in a March 2024 search at a property rented by Mr Karetu and his partner.
Police allege Mr Karetu is implicated in distribution of methamphetamine valued in excess of $1.5 million.
Commissioner of Police v. Karetu – High Court (7.04.25)
25.103