Please attribute to Inspector Al Symonds
Police are advising residents of Maungaturoto and surrounding areas of significant cordons in place this morning due to a large police operation.
At around 12.43am Police attempted to stop a vehicle in Bank Street, Whangarei. The driver fled from Police initiating a short pursuit before crashing minutes later on Kamo Road, Kamo.
The male driver has then exited the vehicle and fired a shot at two unarmed police officers. Both officers sought cover and the offender has then stolen an unmarked patrol vehicle.
A short time later the man has stopped two occupants of a vehicle near Raumanga Valley Road in Whangarei. He ordered them to get out before he has then stolen their vehicle and headed South on State Highway 1.
He was next seen travelling along State Highway 12 by Police where they signalled for the vehicle to stop, however it fled and was last seen near Maungaturoto. Police located the vehicle on Bikerstaffe Road in Maungaturoto shortly after.
The Police Armed Offenders Squad has been deployed into the area and are currently searching for the man who is believed to still be in possession of a firearm.
His identity is not yet known however he is described as possibly in his late 30s, up to 6ft tall with brown curly hair. He was wearing a blue t-shirt with white writing and a brown zip up hoodie.
Police currently have the following cordons in place:
- SH1 intersectios with SH12
- SH12 at Whakapirau
- SH12 at Hoanga
- SH12 at Mangapai Road
- SH12 at Ford Road
These cordons remain in place for the time being and motorists are asked to avoid these areas.
Police are asking for members of the public to call 111 immediately if they observe any suspicious behaviour or anybody fitting the description.
This is a fluid situation and Police are hoping that it will be resolved quickly.
The two police officers were unhurt in the incident and are currently being supported by their colleagues.
ENDS
Shelley Nahr/NZ Police