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"We will help them": Police Minister promises govt support for those wanting to leave gangs

Author
Newstalk ZB,
Publish Date
Wed, 15 Oct 2025, 12:49pm
(Photo / NZ Herald)
(Photo / NZ Herald)

"We will help them": Police Minister promises govt support for those wanting to leave gangs

Author
Newstalk ZB,
Publish Date
Wed, 15 Oct 2025, 12:49pm

What do you do if you want to leave a gang? 

A coroner has found that Napier Mongrel Mob leader Neil Angus Benson, otherwise known as Heil Dogg, felt trapped in his position in the gang in the months leading up to his suicide in December 2024. 

In his report, Coroner Wilton said Benson appeared to be under "psychological strain of his leadership position in the Mongrel Mob gang". 

“He also described an internal dilemma: wanting to exit the gang lifestyle, but recognising he was too deeply involved for a straightforward exit.” 

So if you want out, what can you do? 

Police Minister Mark Mitchell told Kerre Woodham that from a government perspective, there is a significant amount of support they can provide. 

He says if someone makes the decision to leave and has the fortitude to follow through, the Government will get alongside them and help them. 

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