Police investigating a fatal shooting in Lower Hutt last week have issued a warrant to arrest a man this afternoon.
Police said in a statement, he was “wanted for murder”.
Detective Inspector Haley Ryan said police received reports a person had been shot outside a house on Seddon St around 3.15pm last Tuesday.
A police patrol unit was nearby and arrived at the scene to find Albert Enoka, 39, critically injured.
“First responders immediately applied first aid, but sadly his injury was fatal, and he died at the scene.”
Witnesses told police there was a “brief verbal altercation” between the victim and another man prior to the shooting.
The suspect then fled the scene in a black 2008 Mercedes-Benz Saloon with “associates” before police arrived.
The vehicle, with registration number KRP453, was recovered by police on December 10 at a property on Judd Court in Naenae.
An arrest warrant was issued for 28-year-old Wipuhara Kapene arrest this morning as a result of the homicide investigation, Ryan said.
“Police consider Kapene to be armed and dangerous, and he should not be approached.
“It is likely Kapene is receiving help, and police will look to prosecute anyone harbouring or assisting him.”
Anyone who saw Kapene should contact police on 111 — or 105 if the information was being reported after the fact.
Traffic disruption expected for funeral
Police have warned motorists to expect traffic disruption as the funeral of Albert Enoka — a prominent gang member — took place in the Hutt Valley and Porirua tomorrow.
Enoka’s funeral in Lower Hutt in the morning would include a procession to Whenua Tapu Cemetery in Porirua afterwards.
Hutt Valley Acting Area Commander Inspect Shaun Lingard said police would maintain a visible presence in Lower Hutt and would monitor the procession through to Porirua.
“Our thoughts are with the victim’s family and those who will be gathering to mourn, and our role is to allow them to do so safely and respectfully, within the law.”
Lingard said police would not tolerate unlawful activity, including breaches of the Gangs Act 2024, under which gang insignia was prohibited.
“Anyone who is seen to break the law can expect enforcement action, either at the time or after the fact.”
