The Armed Offenders Squad was brought in to assist with the arrest of a 27-year-old man in Rotorua yesterday.

The arrest followed police enquiries into a gang altercation that took place at the Kuirau Park markets earlier in the day.

Reports from the public suggested shots had been fired in an incident between rival gangs, near a children's playground. At the time the morning markets were in full swing, and the area was teeming with shoppers.

A short time later, police located a vehicle with damage consistent with a shot being fired at it.

An examination of the scene confirmed to police that a firearm had been involved.

Following lines of enquiry after receiving information from the public, police yesterday afternoon executed a search warrant at a Rotorua address, resulting in a man's arrest.

The man will appear in the Rotorua District Court on Monday April 24, where he will face firearms and disorder charges.

Detective Senior Sergeant John Wilson says police take this type of offending very seriously and enquiries into the matter are ongoing.

'The actions of these individuals in possessing and using a firearm in such a public place posed a very real and significant risk to innocent members of the public going about their business with their families on a sunny Saturday morning.

'I am aware that there were many people present when this incident occurred who may be able to help this investigation.

'If you witnessed this incident I urge you to come forward and make contact with Rotorua Police. Police are also keen to obtain any mobile phone footage that may have been captured by witnesses.

'It is only through sheer luck that no one was hurt, and Police are determined to identify all those involved and hold them to account for their actions.”

Anyone with information relevant to this investigation is asked to contact Rotorua Police Station on 07 348 0099.

Alternatively information can be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.