Police make further arrests after Operation Purple anti-social road user event
Twelve people have been arrested and charged in the wake of the King’s Birthday weekend anti-social road user gathering in Levin that saw police officers and members of the public injured, fireworks lit, and police vehicles damaged.
Inspector Ross Grantham, Manawatū Area Commander, says since the 30 May event where a crowd of 1000 people gathered and participated in skids, burnouts, and other driving offences, Police have worked tirelessly to gather evidence from the night.
This includes reviewing the footage filmed by officers on the ground and the Police Eagle helicopter at the time, taking witness statements, and going over information provided by the public, alongside sourcing and reviewing relevant CCTV and any footage posted online on social media.
Inspector Grantham, says the level of violence and reckless behaviour shown at the gathering was dangerous and stupid.
“While Police were in attendance, the crowd became aggressive and riotous, with fireworks, physical aggression, and a vehicle all being used against officers. Multiple police vehicles were damaged, and two police officers received minor injuries from the fireworks.”
Five members of the public were also injured, including a woman who was knocked unconscious and left on the ground while people filmed her.
The crowd refused to move for an ambulance, with Police having to deploy tactical options in order for emergency services to reach her.
As the event unfolded, 10 people were arrested for disorderly behaviour and driving-related charges. They are before the courts.
“It is sheer luck that there were not more serious injuries, or even death, that night,” Inspector Grantham says.
As a result of the last month’s work, Police have arrested and charged 12 people, in addition to the 10 people arrested on the night.
“These 22 total arrests are an amazing result for our community and we expect there will be further arrests and charges in the future,” Inspector Grantham says.
Police Commissioner Richard Chambers says those participating in this type of despicable behaviour should expect to hear Police knocking on their front door.
“The kind of behaviour we saw that night is completely unacceptable, and it puts participants, bystanders, and my colleagues in danger.
“Thankfully two officers only received minor injuries, however the situation could have been a lot worse.”
The range of charges include possession of offensive weapon, arson, failing to stop to ascertain injury, failing to stop for Police, sustained loss of traction, driving in a dangerous manner, driving while disqualified, unlawful assembly, unlawfully in an enclosed yard, and excess breath alcohol level.
Seven men aged 18–29, and two women aged 18 and 51 are due to appear in Levin District Court on Wednesday 2, Wednesday 9, and Wednesday 16 July.
Three youth are due to appear in Levin Youth Court at a later date.
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