06 March 2009
Reports of members of the Waikato Armed Offenders Squad or armed staff attending a call to Hamilton Zoo in relation to an escaped chimpanzee yesterday are incorrect.
In accordance with established operating procedures Hamilton Police were notified of the escape of the animal and AOS members were alerted however the first responding officer's tactical assessment of the situation meant no armed staff were deployed.
Waikato Police will continue to work with Hamilton Zoo staff in future incidents to ensure the safety of the public and of any animals is maintained.
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