The LynnMall Confrontation
A 31-year-old man has been arrested and charged after allegedly showing security staff at LynnMall in New Lynn that he was carrying a fake pistol in his waistband before stealing a hoodie. Waitematā West Area Prevention Manager acting inspector Nick Salter stated that police received a security call from the shopping centre regarding a male who allegedly told staff “he wasn’t shoplifting but did have a weapon.” The suspect reportedly lifted his top to reveal the handle of a pistol before walking out of the store without paying for the clothing.
The Tracking and Arrest on Clayburn Rd
Police located the suspect approximately an hour later following a second report from a member of the public on Clayburn Rd in Glen Eden, according to Nick Salter. The informant described seeing a man on a video call who lifted his top to display a pistol in his waistband.
Officers arrived at the scene quickly and found two individuals inside a stationary vehicle. One of the occupants was wearing the hoodie stolen from the mall earlier, and both people were taken into custody. A search of the vehicle uncovered a plastic BB gun and a bag of methamphetamine, according to police.
The Arms Act and Public Safety Risk
Authorities emphasize that incidents involving imitation firearms draw a swift and severe law enforcement response.
“Police take any report of the presence of firearms in the community very seriously and it is an offence under the Arms Act to possess or use an imitation firearm without a lawful, proper and sufficient purpose,” Nick Salter said, adding that the event serves as a reminder of the risks associated with displaying fake weapons.
Waitākere District Court Appearances
The 31-year-old male was scheduled to appear in Waitākere District Court on charges of presenting an imitation firearm and shoplifting.
Meanwhile, a 48-year-old woman apprehended alongside him faces five drug-related charges and was also slated for a court appearance today.