A woman has been arrested and a “modified pistol” seized after a man’s bank card and phone were stolen in a Facebook marketplace deal gone wrong.
The victim met a person at Auckland’s Westgate at around 1am, where the purchase was set to take place, police said.
When the victim got into the alleged offender’s vehicle, his phone and ATM card were stolen, police said.
“An amount of cash was withdrawn from the victim’s account before the two offenders fled the area in two separate vehicles,” Senior Sergeant Damian Albert said.
“Police were provided with detailed descriptions of both vehicles.”
Officers “quickly” found one of the vehicles as it travelled through Manurewa.
The vehicle was stopped on Landette Rd, with two female occupants found inside.
“A search of the vehicle located a modified pistol, ammunition, cannabis and stolen property,” Albert said.
A 25-year-old woman was charged with theft, unlawful possession of a firearm, and possession of cannabis.
“This was great work carried out by our staff to swiftly identify and apprehend those responsible for this incident,” Albert said.
“We are pleased to see one less firearm on our streets, and we will continue our work to disrupt unlawful activity in an effort to help our community feel and be safe.
“Police are committed to identifying and holding offenders, who choose to put the safety of others in jeopardy, to account.”
Enquiries into the alleged theft remain ongoing, police said.
