Alleged gang member arrested with loaded gun and drugs, Merced police say

A suspected gang member was arrested with a loaded gun and drugs in Merced, according to authorities.

The arrest occurred when an officer stopped a vehicle in the area of G Street and Cone Avenue at bout 4:58 p.m. in Merced on Saturday, according to the Merced Police Department.

The officer made contact with the driver, identified as Pheng Moua, who reportedly told the officer he didn’t have a license. Police said the officer arrested Moua and found a high-capacity magazine in his pocket.

During a search of the vehicle, the officer located a loaded Glock 33 handgun as well as about a half ounce of methamphetamine, according to a news release.

According to police, Moua is a felon and validated gang member. Moua, 38, was also found to be on probation and his driver’s license is suspended, police said.

Moua was booked into Merced County Jail on suspicion of felon in possession of a firearm and ammo, transportation and sales of narcotics, possession of narcotics while armed and gang enhancements, according to police.