Man on run for months after Whakatane gang funeral shooting is arrested

A man has been arrested after a gun was fired at a gang funeral procession in Whakatane.

The Mongrel Mob and Black Power clashed near the corner of Valley and Arawa Rds following the funeral of a Mongrel Mob gang member in January.

Shots were fired at rival gang members in broad daylight to try to stop the motorcade entering the town.

Innocent bystanders were standing in the street when the shots rang out.

At the time police condemned the shooting saying people's lives were put at risk.

Several people were arrested soon after.

Detective Sergeant Darren Thomas said the alleged shooter was tracked down thanks to help from the public.

"We would like to thank members of the Whakatane community who have come forward with information and helped us to locate this man, who has been actively avoiding police since January.

"We are still investigating the events of that day and are keen to hear from anyone who may have information.

"Please don't hesitate to contact us, even if you consider your information to be small or unimportant, it may be crucial to our investigation."

People can contact Whakatane police on (07) 308 5255. Alternatively, if people wish to remain anonymous they can contact Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

A 28-year-old man is facing multiple firearms related charges, as well as charges of participating in an organised criminal gang and rioting.

He is set to appear in Whakatane District Court on September 6.

The body of Mongrel Mob member Tahu Kingi was being carried in a motorcade of about 100 vehicles, which were carrying other Kawerau-based members of the gang when the incident happened.