Source: New Zealand Police
Attributable to Detective Sergeant Ben Norman.
Waikato Police have arrested and charged a 22-year-old following a serious, violent incident in Tahuna.
At around 7.20pm, Police were alerted to a group of people fighting on Tahuna-Ohinewai Road after a person who confronted three men in a vehicle doing burnouts was assaulted and other members of the public attempted to intervene.
After noticing the incident unfolding, an occupant of a nearby property has attempted to intervene. However, they were also assaulted by the alleged offenders.
Six people received injuries in total in relation to the incident. Two people received serious injuries, and one other received minor injuries, they were transported to hospital. Three others received minor injuries.
The offenders have then taken two vehicles from the Tahuna-Ohinewai address and moved them onto the street.
Upon Police arrival, the offenders have fled the scene, two fled on foot, while another left in a vehicle taken from the address.
A short time later, one of the offenders was located nearby and was taken into custody by Police.
An investigation into the serious assault and aggravated robbery has commenced, with Police working to establish what exactly has occurred.
Police are following multiple lines of enquiry to identify and locate the remaining two offenders and encourage them to do the right thing and hand themselves in.
As our enquiries are ongoing, members of the community may see an increased Police presence in the area.
While Police would like to thank those who tried to intervene and assist other members of the public, Police urge the public not to take matters into their own hands or confront individuals themselves as situations can escalate quickly.
Instead, stay in a safe location, gather as much information as you safely can, and contact Police on 111.
A 22-year-old man is due to appear in Hamilton District Court today, charged with aggravated robbery and injures with intent to injure.
If you have any information that may assist in Police’s investigation, please contact Police online at 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Update Report” or by calling 105.
Please use the reference number 250619/2309.
You can also provide information through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
