21 Nov 2023

Auckland man charged with murder over death of Charles Pongi

1:32 pm on 21 November 2023
Police in Wellington. Generic image

Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver

Another man has been charged with murder following the death of Charles Pongi in Auckland's Pt England.

He is the fourth person to be arrested and charged in relation to the homicide investigation.

Pongi, 32, was shot in Taurima Reserve on 5 August, during a gathering of more than 70 members from three gangs.

A statement from police said detectives had charged the 26-year-old man from Ōtāhuhu today following the "violent" incident leading to Pongi's death.

Detective Inspector Glenn Baldwin said it followed more than 14 search warrants being carried out across Auckland last week.

"The investigation team remains determined to seek justice on behalf of the Pt England community.

"Whilst police have charged four men with murder and several others with subsidiary and related offending, we are not done yet.

"The investigation is continuing in regard to the appalling violence on 5 August, in the Taurima Reserve."

Baldwin said the investigation continued and further arrests and serious charges were likely.

The 26-year-old was expected to appear in Auckland District Court on Wednesday.

Police were still asking anyone with information to come forward, by ringing 105 quoting the file number 230805/0100 or by going online.

Information can also be provided anonymously on 0800 555 111 via Crime Stoppers.