March 10, 2016
Maori input vital in ending stand-off.
The intervention of Taupo Area Commander Warwick Morehu and iwi liaison officers has helped end an armed stand-off in Kawerau.
Rhys Warren gave himself up this morning to Commander Morehu after allegedly shooting four police yesterday.
The incidence seems to have been sparked by a marijuana clearing operation nearby.
Mr Warren’s family had kept vigil outside the house overnight expressing their concern for his mental state and their fears he could be shot.
Spokesperson Ripeka Lessels said the stand-off could have ended peacefully yesterday afternoon had police enlisted the family's help, which could have involved tikanga Maori.
She says information provided by the police was spasmodic and somewhat misleading.
Two officers have been treated for gunshot wounds and discharged, while another two are still in Waikato hospital, one in a serious but stable condition.
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