A patched Killer Beez gang member attempting to avoid a police checkpoint in east Auckland has been arrested and had his vehicle impounded as a result.
Counties Manukau East Police area prevention manager, Inspector Rakana Cook, says the incident happened in Highbrook at about 6.50pm on Sunday, May 12.
Officers were conducting a routine checkpoint on Highbrook Drive when they noticed a vehicle turning around to avoid passing through.
“As police patrols drove toward the vehicle and signalled for it to stop, the driver has accelerated away,” Cook says.
“The vehicle was driven erratically and at times using the wrong side of the road with its headlights off.”
Cook says the police’s Eagle helicopter quickly gained observations as the vehicle continued travelling down residential streets and into a driveway on La Trobe Street, Pakuranga.
“The driver has fled from the vehicle and was quickly located on the street by officers and taken into custody without further incident.
“As a result, this gang member will face court and has had his vehicle impounded for six months.
“It is incredibly fortunate no member of the public was seriously injured as a result of the driver’s actions.”
Cook says a 34-year-old man will appear in Manukau District Court on May 16 charged with failing to stop, reckless driving, possession of cannabis and driving while forbidden in relation to the incident.
The Killer Beez have had an increased and high-profile presence around Auckland since their member Hone Kay-Selwyn is alleged to have shot and killed Robert Horne in Ponsonby on May 5.
Kay-Selwyn was later found dead at a property near Taupo.
Police said his death was not suspicious and it had been referred to the coroner.
His funeral is taking place in Auckland today, May 13.
