West Auckland man arrested after ‘military-style’ weapons intended for gang members found in home

A West Auckland man has been arrested and charged after police found military-style firearms in his home.

Police said they executed a search warrant at an address on Fathom Place, Te Atatū Peninsula, early yesterday morning after receiving information that a person was in possession of illegal firearms.

Detective Senior Sergeant Joshua Lautogo said the man, who was allegedly involved in supplying the firearms to gang members, was taken into custody without incident.

“Information suggested the man was storing these weapons at his home address and in his vehicle.

“During the search, officers located three military-style semi-automatic firearms, two rifles, 30-round magazines, ammunition and body armour.

“The Offender Prevention Teams led the response and quickly identified a person of interest.”

One of five firearms seized during the search. Photo / Police

Lautogo said the seizure of the weapons was a significant result.

“Removing these firearms from circulation means they no longer pose a serious threat to the community.”

A 51-year-old man appeared in Waitākere District Court yesterday, charged with five counts of unlawful possession of a prohibited firearm, one count of unlawful possession of ammunition and one count of unlawful possession of explosives.

He was remanded on bail and will reappear in court on May 8.