22 Nov 2020

Police armed following South Auckland gunfire incidents

6:52 pm on 22 November 2020

Police in South Auckland are carrying guns as a precaution, while investigations continue into a series of gunfire incidents in Ōtara in recent days.

Police generic

Photo: RNZ / Richard Tindiller

In a statement police said they've been working around the clock since the first reports of gunfire on Friday.

There were three reports of gunshots on Friday, and someone was seen with a gun in Ōtara just before 5pm that day.

At the time police said there were no reports of injuries, and Bairds and Ōtara Roads, were closed.

Police would not be interviewed by RNZ this evening, but had earlier said they believe the incidents were linked.

Extra officers from across Auckland have been brought in to help, Counties Manukau District Commander Superintendent Jill Rogers said in a statement.

"We know the recent firearms incidents... have caused concern and worry in the community. Police have no tolerance for the sort of behaviour we have seen over recent days, and we are absolutely committed to identifying the people involved and holding them to account.

"Sadly, there are people within the community who know the people committing these offences but are not willing to provide information to Police."

She asked for anyone who had seen suspicious behaviour, or had information about the incidents, to contact police on 105. Information can also be left anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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