March 03, 2023
Gang whānau drawn into cyclone talks
Police Deputy Commissioner Wally Haumaha has been meeting with gang factions in Hastings as police try to dampen fears of the looting and disorder in Cyclone-battered Hawke’s Bay.
Police have denied a spike in crime, but they have deployed extra resources and set up mobile units to provide further reassurance to the public.
Mr Haumaha says communities across the board are suffering.
“I engage in those areas where some people think it is unpalatable to go to but by the same token there are women and children, there are familes that also need the attention. That kōrero needs to happen. We can’t ignore it,” he says.