As stated by Tairāwhiti Area Commander Danny Kirk:
The Gisborne community will notice additional Police on patrol ahead of a tangi for a patched gang member on Monday morning.
A large number of gang members and associates are expected to be in town for the tangi, and Police will have additional resources on hand to provide staff the support they need for a gathering of this size. Extra staff from neighbouring Police districts will be in Tairāwhiti, ensuring we can respond to any scenario that threatens public safety. The Police helicopter, Eagle, will also provide aerial support through Monday.
We are mindful of providing a space for whānau and friends to grieve peacefully while balancing the safety of the community.
Police have been in contact with local gang leaders to outline our expectations, including around the wearing or displaying of gang insignia in a public place, which Police will act upon. We have also been in communication with whānau of the deceased.
Our focus is on the safety of everyone. We will not tolerate behaviour that aims to threaten or intimidate, and officers will be working to reduce disruption to the public.
Police will have extra patrols around Gisborne and the wider area, including on the roads. Even if we can't take enforcement action on the day, staff will follow up on reports of illegal activity.
At the heart of this is the safety of our community and I urge anyone who has immediate concerns for their safety to please call Police on 111.
If you are reporting matters after the fact, please make a report online or call 105, referencing file number 250511/1622.
