A gang member was arrested in Northland overnight after a camera operator saw him allegedly pulling a gun from his pants.
Police said a CCTV operator based in Kaitāia saw a man take what appeared to be a gun from his trousers in Paihia just after 2am on Tuesday morning.
“He was observed holding it on camera for a few seconds before adjusting it and placing it back into his pants,” said Senior Sergeant Mark Barratt.
Officers were sent to the location, and he was found a short distance away.
The firearm he allegedly possessed was not found, but they did find equipment for the use of methamphetamine.
Inquiries were ongoing to locate the alleged firearm.
Barratt thanked the CCTV operator for their “proactive prevention” that meant police could locate and charge the man.
“We will continue to act on this sort of information to keep our communities safe.”
A 37-year-old man, who is a patched Black Power member, has been charged with unlawfully carrying a firearm and possessing utensils for methamphetamine.
He is expected to appear in the Kaikohe District Court today.