Police in the Eastern District are assuring locals and visitors that they have plans in place to ensure everyone’s safety during gang funeral proceedings in Hawke’s Bay this weekend. Eastern District Commander Superintendent Jeanette Park said that two funerals, one in Napier on Saturday and another in Central Hawke’s Bay on Tuesday, have attracted gang members from across the country.
With the King’s Birthday weekend also causing an influx of holidaymakers, Superintendent Park wants to ensure that everyone can enjoy their weekend safely and without disruption. To help manage the situation, extra police staff have been brought in from other districts.
Superintendent Park said that the police have been in touch with the families of the deceased and gang leaders, emphasizing the need for safe and lawful behavior. She warned that any illegal activities would not be tolerated and those responsible would be held accountable.
Anyone with immediate safety concerns should call 111, while non-urgent matters can be reported by calling 105 or online, quoting file number 240514/0870.
The police have also set up an online portal for the public to anonymously upload videos or photos of potential criminal activity by gang members in Hawke’s Bay in the coming days. The uploaded material will be used by the police for further investigation and enforcement actions. To upload, visit https://cellar.nc3.govt.nz/ and reference the same file number.
