The driver of a stolen moped was found hiding under a tree with a backpack full of guns and drugs after dumping his wheels in Hamilton yesterday.
Senior Sergeant David Raffan said officers attempted to pull the moped over on Peachgrove Rd at around 6.55am after noticing its licence plate had been covered with spray paint.
The moped boosted off and was eventually found abandoned in a residential area.
The rider continued his journey on foot, with the dog unit called in to track him.
The dog briefly lost the trail as the pursuit crossed a public space. "It wasn’t long before the scent was picked up again," Raffan said.
A man was then located under a tree on Ascot Rd.
Officers found a loaded shotgun and pistol, ammunition, drugs, drug paraphernalia, and a protective vest in a backpack.
A 38-year-old Ōtara man was due to appear in the Hamilton District Court today, charged with unlawful possession of a firearm, unlawful possession of ammunition, failing to stop and unlawful taking of a motor vehicle.
"This person went to considerable lengths to avoid police," Raffan said.
"Given what was subsequently found in his backpack, police are pleased these items are off the street, and the man was taken into custody without further incident."
Police were also working to return the moped to its owner.
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