Police incident Bledisloe Street Levin – Update

Yesterday afternoon Police cordoned Bledisloe Street, Levin following a report of a person threatening self-harm.

Some residents in the street have been asked by Police to leave their homes as a precautionary measure.

Inspector Sarah Stewart, Manawatu Area Commander says she understands that the incident has been distressing for residents who have been asked to leave their homes. “We know it can be upsetting to be asked to leave your home – especially when we’re not able to say much about the incident that’s prompted this – but public safety must always be our number one priority.

“The welfare of the displaced residents is very important and we’re grateful to Horowhenua District Council staff who are assisting with temporary accommodation, when displaced residents don’t have family or friends nearby to stay with.

“A Police Negotiation Team is in dialogue with a resident of Bledisloe Street. This specialist team are highly skilled and work hard to help resolve incidents without loss of life, injury, or damage to property.”

FENZ and Ambulance staff are supporting the Police-lead response. Bledisloe Street will remain cordoned between Freyberg and Cobham Street until the incident is resolved and members of the public are asked to avoid the area until further notice.

Update – Friday morning 5 August 2022

The self-harm related incident involving a resident of a Bledisloe Street property has continued overnight and is ongoing.

A Police Negotiation Team remains in communication with the person.

Some residents in the street have been asked by Police to leave their homes as a precautionary measure.

Bledisloe Street will remain cordoned between Freyberg and Cobham Streets until the incident is resolved and members of the public are asked to avoid the area until further notice.

Inspector Sarah Stewart, Manawatu Area Commander says she understands that the incident has been distressing for residents who have had to leave their homes.

“We know it can be upsetting to be asked to leave your home – especially when we’re not able to say much about the incident that’s prompted this – but public safety must always be our number one priority and we thank those affected for their co-operation.

“The welfare of the displaced residents is very important and we’re grateful to Horowhenua District Council staff who are assisting with temporary accommodation, when displaced residents don’t have family or friends nearby to stay with.”

It is safe for students from Levin East School and Waiopehu College to attend school today. The community will notice an increased presence of Police staff in the area.

Any residents directly affected by the incident who have any specific requests or concerns are asked to visit the Levin Police station and we will provide assistance to them. If you cannot go into the station, please call 105 and quote event number P051449147.