Attributable to Detective Sergeant Rochelle Ross:
Police have arrested and charged three men following an aggravated robbery in Aokautere.
At around 7.45am this morning, Manawatu Police were called to a residential address in Aokautere following a report of an aggravated robbery.
Thankfully, the occupants of the property are uninjured, however they are understandably shaken by the incident.
Upon arrival, Police saw the alleged offenders flee the area in a vehicle.
Police signalled the vehicle to stop, however the driver failed to stop and fled from Police.
Tyre-deflation devices were successfully deployed a short time later and the occupants of the vehicle fled on foot.
The three men were subsequently located and were taken into custody without incident.
The three Auckland men, aged 19 to 23, are due to appear in Palmerston North District Court on Monday, charged with aggravated robbery.
We acknowledge the disruption this incident may have had on members of the community and would like to thank the public for their understanding and patience during this incident.
Police would like to reassure the community that this is believed to be an isolated incident, and there is no ongoing risk to the public.
We would also like to praise the public for reporting suspicious activity in the area at the time of the incident, this is a great example of the community assisting Police, leading to these offenders being held to account.
If you witness any suspicious or unlawful activity, please contact Police with as much information as safely possible.
You can contact Police on 111 in an emergency, or for non-emergencies through 105.police.govt.nz, clicking "Make a Report" or call 105.
Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 0800 555 111.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre