Gang conflict - Rotorua
"Gang conflict - Rotorua"
At about 10 am on Saturday 22 April 2017 Police received multiple emergency calls after a gang altercation at the Kuirau Park markets near Rotorua’s CBD.
Reports from the public were that there was an
incident between members of rival gangs, and that shots had
been fired.
This happened near a children’s playground
in the middle of the Saturday morning market, while the area
was teeming with shoppers.
A short time later, Police
located a vehicle with damage consistent with a shot being
fired at it.
An examination of the scene confirmed to
Police that a firearm had been involved.
Following lines of enquiry after receiving information
from the public, Police yesterday afternoon executed a
search warrant at a Rotorua address and a 27-year-old man
was arrested with the assistance of members of the Armed
Offender's Squad.
The man will appear in the Rotorua
District Court on Monday 24 April, where he will face
firearms and disorder charges.
Detective Senior
Sergeant John Wilson of the Bay of Plenty Police says Police
take this type of offending very seriously and enquiries
into this matter are ongoing.
“The actions of
these individuals in possessing and using a firearm in such
a public place posed a very real and significant risk to
innocent members of the public going about their business
with their families on a sunny Saturday morning.”
“I am aware that there were many people present when
this incident occurred who may be able to help this
investigation.
If you witnessed this incident I urge you
to come forward and make contact with the Rotorua Police.
Police are also keen to obtain any mobile phone footage that may have been captured by witnesses.”
“It is
only through sheer luck that no one was hurt, and Police are
determined to identify all those involved and hold them to
account for their actions.”
Anyone with
information relevant to this investigation is asked to
contact the Rotorua Police Station on 07 348 0099.
Alternatively information can be provided anonymously via
Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
ENDS