Pāhoa Man Charged with Firearm Offenses

Kawika Benny Kahee arrested for possession of a 'ghost gun' and other firearms violations

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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Kawika Benny Kahee of Pāhoa was arrested and charged with multiple firearm offenses after police found a semi-automatic pistol and an unregistered 'ghost gun' in his vehicle during a routine patrol in the Nanawale subdivision. Kahee is prohibited from owning or possessing firearms due to a prior felony conviction.

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing concerns about the proliferation of untraceable 'ghost guns' and the challenges law enforcement faces in keeping firearms out of the hands of convicted felons. Illegal gun possession is a persistent issue in Hawaii, especially in rural areas like Puna.

The details

During a routine patrol, Puna police officers came upon two vehicles, including Kahee's white Toyota pickup truck. After placing Kahee under arrest on outstanding warrants, officers spotted a black semi-automatic pistol on the front passenger seat. A subsequent search of the vehicle uncovered an unloaded 9mm 'ghost gun' with no serial number. Detectives determined Kahee is prohibited from owning firearms due to a prior felony conviction.

  • On March 10, 2026, Puna patrol officers conducted area checks on a powerline road in the Nanawale subdivision.
  • Kahee was placed under arrest for two outstanding bench warrants.

The players

Kawika Benny Kahee

A Pāhoa resident who was arrested and charged with multiple firearm offenses, including possession of a 'ghost gun', due to a prior felony conviction.

Puna Patrol Officers

Hawaii Police Department officers who conducted the routine patrol and made the arrest of Kahee.

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What’s next

Kahee will appear in court for a bail hearing and arraignment on the charges.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the need for stronger regulations and enforcement around 'ghost guns' and firearm possession by convicted felons in order to improve public safety in Hawaii's communities.