Relieving Wellington District Commander Inspector Lincoln Sycamore:

Police acknowledge the findings by the Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA) regarding four complaints against Wellington Police officers obtaining a warrant and seizing vehicles for unpaid fines in 2022 and 2023.

The incidents occurred following the start of ‘Operation Cobalt’, a nationwide effort by Police to target and disrupt illegal gang activity. As part of this operation, Police staff would apply for warrants to seize property belonging to gang members with unpaid fines.

Police have reviewed the policy and practice regarding obtaining a warrant to seize property for unpaid fines and have addressed the recommendation made by the IPCA.

In March 2024, we updated our search instructions for officers to ensure they are aware of and understand their obligations. Officers are required to have Ministry of Justice bailiffs present at the search location, unless there is urgency and or good reason for Police to execute the warrant as part of a major event operation or criminal investigation.

We also agree with the second recommendation made by the IPCA and have already begun the process to engage with Ministry of Justice to update an internal form used by officers. This will ensure the form accurately reflects the scope of the search and seizure power under section 99 of the Summary Proceedings Act 1957.

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