Thirteen people, including one as young as 12, have been charged with a total of 37 offences relating to the alleged theft of luxury cars and police pursuits in the New South Wales Hunter Region.
The charges also include aggravated breaking and entering, breaking bail, theft and reckless driving.
"Some are currently in custody facing children's court today ... the others I believe have been bailed and are now subject to certain conditions," Acting Superintendent Steve Manson said.
He said a child as young as 12 was allegedly involved in the criminal group.
"Majority of the offenders were in their teens, however, some were adults," Acting Superintendent Manson said.
"But majority we're seeing aged between 12 and 17 years of age.
"There are certain ringleaders that we've identified, and certainly with how they arrange their activities, it did appear that they were acting in concert."
The teens allegedly used the stolen cars to commit additional property offences and engage in police pursuits that were live-streamed on social media.
"Social media platforms have been used by these offenders to, I guess, promote or show their criminal behaviours," he said.
"The behaviours, especially involving dangerous driving, must stop."
Police said the teenagers allegedly also used social media to coordinate their actions and locate vehicles.
"They range from your luxury SUVs, your sports-level vehicles as well as the average family vehicle," Acting Superintendent Manson said.
The arrests were made after a three-day investigation across the Hunter and Newcastle regions that wrapped up on Wednesday.
"Port Stephens-Hunter, Lake Macquarie and Newcastle City police districts were involved in the investigation ... under Strike Force Baste," Acting Superintendent Manson said.
He said the offences allegedly occurred during the past three months.
