Jared Savage on the Evolving Landscape of Gangs, Crime, and Drug Activity in New Zealand

In a world where the lines between law and chaos blur, New Zealand is witnessing a troubling transformation in the realm of gangs, crime, and drug activity. Herald crime journalist Jared Savage, a seasoned investigator into the country’s underworld, has sounded the alarm about a dramatic increase in drug consumption, the rise of a new breed of criminal, and the alarming frequency of violent, assassination-style killings.

In his latest book, Underworld: The New Era of Gangs in New Zealand, Savage delves into the unsettling evolution of organized crime in the country. Drawing from years of investigative journalism and his previous works, Gangland and Gangster’s Paradise, he paints a stark picture of a criminal underworld that is growing more sophisticated and more dangerous by the day.

Speaking on Real Life with John Cowan, Savage highlighted a startling development: the amount of methamphetamine entering New Zealand has nearly doubled in recent months, despite the efforts of law enforcement and customs agencies. What was once a mere 15 kilograms per week has now reached nearly 40 kilograms, with some of the largest shipments slipping through undetected.

'Back in the early days of my career, catching even 1kg of meth at the border was a huge deal,' Savage said. 'Now, the smallest dealer on the street would have 10 times that in the back of their car. We're talking about 100-700kg imports now.'

This surge in drug availability is not only a public health crisis but a social one as well. Savage points to the devastating impact on communities, linking the rise in drug use to issues such as poverty, unemployment, and youth suicide. 'These are not easy problems to solve,' he said, emphasizing the need for a multifaceted approach that goes beyond law enforcement.

One of the most alarming changes in organized crime, according to Savage, is the emergence of the so-called 'Nike Bikey gangs.' These are younger, more polished criminals, often seen in gym attire and with a presence on social media. They are a far cry from the 'ragtag, scruffy' motorbike gangs of the past, and their influence is growing rapidly.

'They're not just criminals; they're influencers in their own right,' Savage noted. 'They're putting their lives on Instagram, and that's part of their strategy to recruit and spread their influence.' This shift, he adds, is partly driven by the influx of deportees from Australia, many of whom bring with them different criminal networks and tactics.

Alongside this, Savage warns of a disturbing trend in the use of firearms. While New Zealand criminals have always possessed guns, the past five years have seen an increase in their use, often leading to violent retaliation and a higher risk of innocent bystanders being caught in the crossfire.

'I'm amazed that more innocent people haven't been caught in the crossfire of these conflicts,' Savage said. 'This is not just a law enforcement issue; it's a societal one that needs to be addressed with urgency.'

However, Savage emphasizes that tackling the root of the problem requires more than just enforcement. He argues that addressing the demand for drugs is as crucial as stopping the supply. 'We need to invest more in rehabilitation, counseling, and support systems for those struggling with addiction,' he said. 'If we can reduce the demand, we can also reduce the supply.'

Despite the grim nature of his work, Savage finds solace in his faith. 'It's a central part of my life and who I am,' he said. 'It keeps me level-headed and grounded, even when I see some of the worst things in the world.'

In closing, Savage hopes that his book will help readers better understand the complexities of criminal activity. 'I want people to understand not just the problem, but also the reasons why someone might join a gang or enter the world of drug-dealing,' he said. 'It's not about excusing it, but about adding nuance and understanding to the issue.'

Real Life with John Cowan continues to explore the lives and stories of New Zealand's most influential figures. Tune in every Sunday at 7:30pm on Newstalk ZB to hear more from guests who are shaping the world around us.