Two more men charged with murder of gang member in Auckland

1:16 pm on 17 November 2023
US police tape.

Photo: AFP / Andri Tambunan

Police have charged another two men with murder after the death of Head Hunters gang member Charles Pongi in Pt England in August.

A 20-year-old man from Avondale has been taken into custody and was today charged with murder, unlawful possession of a firearm, assault, and threatening grievous bodily harm.

Today, a 24-year-old man from Favona was also charged with the murder of Pongi, 32, who died in hospital after being shot.

A 25-year-old man from Ōtāhuhu was found during a separate search and has been charged with assault.

All three men are due to appear in the Auckland District Court today.

Detective Inspector Glenn Baldwin said altogether, five people have been charged over the "significant violence" that erupted between two gangs on 5 August in Taurima Reserve.

Over the past three days, police had executed more than 14 search warrants across Auckland, he said.

"Early this morning our detectives, again supported by the Armed Offenders Squad, executed a further four search warrants," Baldwin said.

"Police hope these arrests continue to bring reassurance to the community."

Further arrests and serious charges were likely, Baldwin said.

Anyone with information should contact police on 105 or through their website.

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