Police crack down on 200-car ‘anti-social gathering’

Four people have been arrested, two vehicles seized and dozens of infringements issued after an anti-social road user event in Manawatū.

Manawatū Area Commander Inspector Matenga Gray says two patrol cars were damaged after the group launched projectiles, but the 200 vehicles involved in the event “spent their night dealing with Police rather than tearing up local roads and causing distress to communities”.

Ahead of the planned event, Police launched Operation Golf in order to disrupt dangerous and anti-social driving activity before it could escalate.

“Police staff from Wellington, Whanganui, and Manawatū worked together to target last night’s event. It allowed us to successfully interrupt multiple gatherings and remind participants they’re not welcome here.

“We’ve seen the damage and distress these people inflict on our communities and we’re not having it.

“A significant amount of resource was put into this operation and I also want to thank the many people who made reports to Police. Those reports helped us to track the group and stop them before they could set up somewhere as one large group.”

The anti-social activity was largely concentrated around the rural outskirts of Palmerston North and Horowhenua. About 11.30pm, vehicles blocked part of State Highway 1 near Rongotea Road, where two Police vehicles were damaged by projectiles thrown from the crowd.

No officers were injured.

“I’m proud of how our staff reacted to this violence,” Inspector Gray said. “Despite the threat, officers used their training and managed to break up the gathering.

“Over the course of an hour we cleared the scene and processed drivers through checkpoints, while keeping disruption to highway traffic to a minimum. It was a great effort and Bailiffs also seized several vehicles.”

While final enforcement numbers are still being confirmed, initial results include:

• 48 infringements issued
• 7 vehicles ordered off the road
• 7 vehicles impounded by Police
• 2 vehicles impounded by court bailiffs
• Multiple driver licence suspensions

Four people were arrested during the operation for offences including breach of bail, failing to stop for Police, and resisting Police.

The effort to identify other offenders is ongoing, and Police will be reviewing photos and videos to carry out more enforcement action.

“While the behaviour of some involved was disappointing, the outcome of this operation is very pleasing,” Inspector Gray said. “Over the coming weeks, we’ll be speaking to others who were involved, and they can expect to answer for their actions.”

“Dozens of Police units worked together to disrupt an event involving around 200 vehicles and staff did an excellent job monitoring the group, breaking up convoys, and preventing further road blockages.”

Inspector Gray said anti-social road user behaviour will not be tolerated. “Those involved in this activity can expect ongoing, coordinated responses and a continued zero tolerance approach from Police.”