Investigation of firearm discharge at Tuhoe re-enactment well in hand

National News Release
1:01pm 3 February 2005

A complaint was received by Police on 24 January concerning the discharge of a firearm at the Waitangi Tribunal hearing in Ruatoki and the public can be assured that appropriate action is being taken, the District Commander for Bay of Plenty District, Superintendent Gary Smith said today.

Superintendent Smith said a thorough investigation is well under-way.

"Once all the facts are assembled and have been looked at with legal advice around evidential sufficiency, decisions will be taken.

"Clearly the laws of New Zealand apply to all our citizens. Where offences have occurred and there is sufficient evidence to warrant changes Police will act.

"We have spoken to the Police Officer who was present and I believe that his decision not to intervene on the day of the re-enactment was the right one," said Superintendent Smith.

ENDS

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