Investigation of shootings leads to arrest

Auckland Police arrested a 29 year-old unemployed Manurewa man early this morning as a result of investigations over the past six weeks into four firearms incidents in various parts of the City District between November 13 and December 19.

Shots were fired in all four incidents and three men were injured and required hospital treatment as a result.

Detective Senior Sergeant John Sutton of Avondale CIB says this morning's arrest was effected simultaneously alongside search warrants executed by the Armed Offender's Squad at two Manurewa addresses.

No firearms were recovered but investigations into activities of associates of the properties are continuing and further arrests are possible.

"Our investigations this far lead us to conclude that the shooting incidents were not random acts of violence against strangers," Mr Sutton says.

"Rather, they appear to have been planned and those involved - either as victims or the alleged offender - are most likely participants in the illicit drug business."

Shootings occurred at Hayr Rd on November 13 and 27, at a Mt Albert address on December 8 and in Seymour St, St Mary's Bay, on December 19.

The 29 year-old will appear in the Auckland District Court today charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and commission of a crime while in possession of a firearm in relation to the December 8 incident, during which a man was allegedly shot in the foot.

Any information about suspicious or criminal behaviour can reported anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or directly to Police.

ENDS

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