Source: New Zealand Police
Attribute to Inspector Nicky Cooney, Eastern Bay of Plenty Area Commander:
Police will have a visible presence across Rotorua tomorrow and Saturday as a gang tangi travels from Rotorua to Ōpōtiki.
A large number of gang members and associates are expected to be in town for the tangi from many parts of the country.
Police will have additional resources available to provide support to staff and to provide a respectful and safe space for whānau and friends to grieve peacefully.
Police have conveyed our lawful expectations to local gang leaders, including around the wearing or displaying of gang insignia in a public place, which Police will act upon.
Our focus is on the safety of everyone. We will not tolerate behaviour that aims to threaten or intimidate, and officers will be working to reduce disruption to the public.
Police will have additional patrols in place Friday and Saturday, and will follow up on reports of illegal activity.
We urge anyone who is witnessing illegal behaviour to call 111 immediately. Other reports can be made via 105.
Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
