Gang associate on run

A hunt for dangerous gang associate Jackson Manson was sparked after a pistol was found in his abandoned car.

Police said yesterday the gun was found in a car Manson left at the corner of Hills Rd and Shirley Rd on Friday afternoon.

Manson (right), 22, and associates were being tracked by police after they were allegedly spotted preparing for a burglary.

Detective Sergeant Chris Power said Manson, had access to firearms and was a risk to the public.

He is wanted in connection with "serious offending involving firearms" and should not be approached.

Police found a pistol in the abandoned car.

"That's the reason why he's regarded as a threat," he said.

"He has a prediliction towards using firearms. There's evidence that's the way he's operating lately and we don't believe he'll change his pattern.

"He should be treated as armed and dangerous," he said.

The Armed Offenders Squad was called out to a Dallington property on Monday after an off-duty police officer reported sighting Manson, but he had left the Gayhurst Rd address before police arrived.

Detective Sergeant Power said anyone seeing him should phone 111 immediately or notify Detective Tim Cummins, phone 373 9160, or Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.

Manson is a Maori, of thin build with black hair and brown eyes.