Waikiato Police say the apprehension of two people who helped a dangerous gunman to a avoid capture should send a clear message to anyone found aiding or abetting this fugitive could face prosecution.
Acting Detective Sergeant Paul Galletta of the Te Awamutu CIB said Tokoroa Police arrested a 37-year-old woman in the town following a series of searches that saw parts of Amisfield cordoned off yesterday.
"The searches occurred after reported sightings in the town of Moanaroa KIDWELL about 9.30am.
"KIDWELL is being sought in connection with a series of aggravated robberies linked to the sale of motorbikes on social media sites over recent weeks. The searches failed to locate KIDWELL who remains at large and the woman has been charged with being an accessory after the fact."
Mr Galletta said this arrest was quickly followed by the apprehension of a second person a short time later at Hamilton's Waikato Hospital and that person is assisting Police with their inquiries.
"While KIDWELL remains at large he remains a threat to the community and we reiterate warnings not to approach him.
"At the same time, yesterday's arrest should serve as a warning to those helping him evade capture that in doing so their help may come at a price."
Mr Galletta said unrelated events early this morning were a good example of how new technology such as the anonymous Crimestoppers, combined with a whole of Policing approach can be used to successfully remove high-risk offenders from the streets.
"In that case another armed fugitive was held to account through the combined efforts of the community and Auckland, Waikato and Bay of Plenty based staff. It shows how seriously Police take violent crime and we suggest to Mr KIDWELL that he may want to consider his options and make contact with us.
Anyone with information on KIDWELL'S whereabouts is asked to contact Mr Galletta at the Te Awamutu Police Station on 07 8720100.
Alternatively, information can be left anonymously with the independent Crimestoppers on 0800555111.
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