Attribute to Central District Commander, Superintendent Scott Fraser:
Taranaki Police have taken a man into custody in Achilles Street, Stratford, after an incident overnight where gunshots were fired towards officers.
About 10.30pm yesterday a vehicle failed to stop for Police.
Officers did not pursue the vehicle but maintained observations on it and it was spiked in Stratford.
The vehicle came to a stop a short time later; the driver exited the vehicle and discharged a firearm towards officers.
Members of the Armed Offenders Squad and a dog unit were deployed, and tracked the offender to a residential address on Achilles Street about 12.45am.
Cordons were established and the Police Negotiation Team has worked to engage with the man for some hours.
A firearm was discharged from the address towards Police a further two times.
As a precaution, Police have engaged with neighbouring addresses to ensure they were kept safe.
Fortunately, no one was injured during this incident.
Following successful negotiation the man has exited the address and was taken into custody about 2.40pm.
This was a lengthy and demanding incident, and our staff worked quickly this morning to contain and manage the situation, while minimising any risk to the public.
I am proud of the way our staff have worked professionally to manage this incident, containing and apprehending a dangerous offender and minimising risk to others in the area.
Due to the duration of the incident it has involved specialist staff from right across the district, as well as some from out of district.
I thank all those staff who have contributed to an outcome without anyone getting hurt today.
I would also like to thank the community for their assistance and acknowledge the impact that today’s events will have had.
Firing shots towards Police is a reckless act that shows absolutely no concern for the safety of anyone involved.
Staff safety is a key priority for Police, and officers and their families will receive support following this incident.
Charges are yet to be determined.
Police cannot comment further at this time.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre