Police are stepping up an operation to suppress gang-violence in Opotiki and Whakatane

A warrant's been issued --which is granted during times of gang conflict -- giving officers powers to search vehicles and places of suspected gang members and seize weapons.

In the last week, there have been a number of reports of shots being fired at cars and houses in Opotiki -- with alleged offenders arrested.

On Saturday, a 20-year-old woman arrived at the Opotiki Ambulance Station with a gunshot wound -- telling Police she was injured after her car was shot at.

Police believe it's linked to ongoing conflict, between the Black Power and Mongrel Mob gangs.