Murder charge follows gang war

A 19-year-old man has been arrested for the murder of Iulio Naea Kilepoa, who was found dead after a gang fight in South Auckland last weekend.

The arrest came last night after a week-long inquiry.

The 38-year-old father was found slain, reportedly with a knife in his chest, at his Flat Bush home on Sunday.

His body was discovered as police were investigating a youth gang fight in Norrie Smith Ave that left a 17-year-old seriously injured and an 18-year-old critically injured earlier in the morning.

Mr Kilepoa's 17-year-old son, youth gang member George Naea, was arrested on Tuesday and charged with the attempted murder of the two injured teens.

Naea is also charged with assault and causing grievous bodily harm following an incident at Aorere Park, Mangere, on October 14.

Two teens were injured and a 16-year-old left partially paralysed and unable to speak following that attack.

Several other youth gang members have also been arrested in connection with the Aorere Park attack.

The 19-year-old charged with Mr Kilepoa's murder is due to appear in the Manukau District Court today. He is from Flat Bush.

Acting Detective Inspector Richard Middleton said police still had more inquiries to complete but this arrest was a significant development in the case and followed long hours of work by the investigation team.

Mr Kilepoa's funeral service is on Monday.

It is not known if his son will be granted special permission to be released from custody so he can attend.