Police warn gang fugitive should not be approached

 Waikato Police seeking a prominent member of an organised criminal group say the fugitive is taking extraordinary lengths to avoid arrest and warn he should not be approached.

District Crime Manager, Detective Inspector Karl Thornton, said last night detectives supported by members of the Waikato Armed Offenders Squad went to a Burwood Rd Matamata address seeking Leslie Mark PAIRAMA, the alleged president of the Rogue chapter of the Mongrel Mob gang.

“PAIRAMA is currently wanted on active Warrants to Arrest for kidnapping and aggravated robbery offences dating back to August of last year.

“Also known as Lester PAIRAMA or Lester ROGUE, this man has an extensive criminal history with over 95 convictions, many for serious violent offending. Police warn he is dangerous and should not be approached.”

Mr Thornton said officers attending the incident appealed for the occupants of the house to come out but when their calls went unanswered tear-gas was used to make the property safe for Police staff to search. The house was found to be unoccupied.

“It was during this search that Police got an idea of just what lengths PAIRAMA will go to avoid arrest. Located inside a wardrobe in one of the bedrooms our staff located a hidden cavity equipped with a radio scanner.

“PAIRAMA is also known to take drastic measures to change his appearance including by having tattoos removed or added to avoid being identified.”

A male Maori 178cm tall of medium to solid build, Mr Thornton said PAIRAMA is known to have connections throughout the North Island and anyone who sees him or has information on his whereabouts is asked to ring 111.”

Alternatively, information can be left anonymously with the independent Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

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