"UPDATE: Cloverlea incident ongoing in Palmerston North "

Following the earlier stand-up with Manawatu Area Commander Inspector Sarah Stewart, Police can confirm that the operation in Cloverlea, Palmerston North, is still ongoing.

Highly-trained specialist teams, including members of the Armed Offenders Squad, Police negotiators and Police staff from other districts, are working hard to resolve this situation safely for everyone.

However, such situations are typically dynamic and complex, and Police need to work carefully and systematically to help ensure a safe outcome.

Inspector Sarah Stewart said: “Police are taking a systematic and coordinated approach to clearing the area and finding Caleb.

“We appreciate this is a stressful situation for all in the community, and appreciate people want to return to their homes and daily lives.

However, the absolute priority is everyone’s safety, and we will let people return to their homes as soon as we reasonably can once it is resolved.

“We encourage Caleb to give himself up to Police, as all we want is a safe resolution for everyone.”

Caleb Kovaleski is described as a Caucasian male, thin to medium build and approximately 178cm tall.

Anyone who sees someone matching this description, any suspicious activity or behaviour, or who has any concerns, is asked to ring Police immediately on 111.

Police are also seeking a stolen silver Ford Telstar/Mazda 626 hatchback with a sunroof.

If anyone sees a vehicle matching this description they are asked to contact Police immediately.

ENDS

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