UPDATE: Ongoing incident in Levin: Bledisloe Street

On Thursday Police became aware of an incident involving a resident of a Bledisloe Street property, which has continued overnight and is ongoing today.
 
A number of Police units, including a Police Negotiation Team, are at the scene and are speaking with the individual.
 
We are doing everything we can to resolve this safely for everybody involved, says Manawatū Area Commander Inspector Sarah Stewart.
 
“We are taking this very seriously and have a specialist team working hard to help resolve the incident without loss of life, injury, or damage to property.
 
“We have asked some residents in the street to leave their homes as a precautionary measure.
 
“Everything we are doing is to ensure the safety of all those involved and our advice is that everyone inside the cordon evacuates.”
 
Bledisloe Street will remain cordoned between Freyberg and Cobham Streets until the incident is resolved. 
 
Members of the public are asked to avoid the area until further notice.
 
“We understand that the incident has been distressing for residents. However, resolving the incident safely for everybody is our number one priority and we thank those affected for their co-operation.
 
“Police are working with displaced residents and are assisting with pet welfare checks and with retrieving medication left inside the cordon. 
 
“We’re grateful to Mayor Bernie Wanden and the team at the Horowhenua District Council who are assisting with temporary accommodation, food and basic needs when displaced residents don’t have family or friends nearby to stay with.”
 
Horowhenua District Council Mayor Bernie Wanden says the community can be reassured we are working with the Police and have every confidence that they will deal with this matter as soon as practical. 
 
“Our concern is for our residents, their safety and their welfare and we want to continue to support them and give them any assistance they need.”
 
The community will notice an increased presence of Police staff in the area, carrying out reassurance patrols.
 
Fire and Emergency New Zealand and Ambulance staff are continuing to support the Police-led response. 
 
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.
 
ENDS
 
Issued by Police Media Centre.