Police continue to investigate the death of Albert Enoka in Naenae last year, despite a murder charge being withdrawn in the High Court at Wellington today.
Mr Enoka was shot and killed after a confrontation in Seddon Street, Naenae on 10 December. A man was arrested on 24 December and charged with murder.
"This has been a challenging investigation," said Detective Inspector Haley Ryan.
"We accept that there is currently insufficient evidence to proceed with the charge, but will continue to work towards finding a resolution for Albert and his whanau."
"There are people within the gang scene that hold vital information who have either refused to speak with us or have not been truthful. As loyalties change, it may be that these people will tell us what they know. We want to hear from them and we encourage them to come forward.
"Police will continue to vigorously monitor gang activity closely and will deal firmly with any unlawful activity that results from the charge being withdrawn today," said Detective Inspector Ryan.
"Recent legislative changes have given us more powers to deal with gang-related offending, and we will use all the tools available to keep the community safe."
