28 January 2004
Police Management Must Do Better - Mark
New Zealand First law and order spokesperson Ron Mark, has again called on Police headquarters and Minister George
Hawkins to act more responsibly to support police officers, especially during the hours of darkness.
“I have criticized the practice of solo patrolling before, urging police managers to ensure that frontline officers are
not exposed to unnecessary risks,” said Mr Mark.
“The incident on Monday night in which a solo officer was attacked and severely injured by two offenders highlights the
danger faced by lone patrols and the practice must stop.
“Police management need to focus less on politically correct policing and place more emphasis on the protection and
safety of frontline officers.
“In another recent incident, police officers who came under attack in a Christchurch bar have raised concerns about the
increasing boldness of many of Christchurch’s night people.
“It is time police were given the resources needed to keep the city under control at night. Even the police themselves
are not safe,” said Mr Mark.
ENDS