One person is in custody following a violent aggravated robbery in Kaikohe this morning.
At about 7am Police received a report of a man allegedly in possession of a firearm breaking into a property in Williams Street.
Detective Senior Sergeant Aaron Crawford, Northland CIB, says a woman and child were inside the address at the time.
"The woman and her child have been seriously assaulted before the man has then fled in a vehicle stolen from the address.
"The Police Eagle helicopter was able to quickly locate the vehicle in Omapere a short time later."
Detective Senior Sergeant Crawford says the alleged offender was then identified by Police and attempted to run.
"He has then attempted to steal another vehicle by assaulting a member of the public, however officers have quickly intervened and taken him into custody.
"Police have also since located a firearm and property believed to be from the victims address."
Detective Senior Sergeant Crawford says it was a great result after what was a terrifying ordeal for the victims.
"The woman was transported to hospital in serious but stable condition and the child received minor injuries.
"Both are understandably shaken.
"There is no place for this sort of violent behaviour in our community.
"I'm pleased we have been able to arrest this man and hold him to account."
A 38-year-old man remains in custody and charges are pending.
Witnesses sought:
Police want to hear from anyone who witnessed the incident on Williams Street, Kaikohe, or any sightings of a yellow Suzuki Swift travelling west on State Highway 12 towards Whirinaki, Kouto Loop Road and then Opononi and Omapere.
Police are also seeking sightings of a male acting suspiciously in the Omapere area this morning.
