One person was moderately injured after a “violent robbery” where an individual was assaulted and had a piece of their clothing stolen in Tokoroa last week.
Police received a report of a robbery involving a “small group of people” at around 1pm on June 28.
“The three offenders then got into a white Ford Courier ute and left the scene, nearly colliding with a Toyota van at the intersection of Leith Place and Swanson Street.”
Detective Neale Saunders said it was a “violent attack” carried out in broad daylight.
“We recognise this would have been distressing for the community and those who witnessed the incident.”
Police were “confident” they knew the identities of the three offenders, he said.
“It is only a matter of time before we locate and apprehend them.”
Saunders said police believed it was a “gang-related incident”.
“We do not believe there is any ongoing risk to the wider community.”
A number of people were present in the area over the long weekend who police want to hear from, Saunders said.
“Police have a dedicated team investigating and working to locate those involved in this… violent attack.”
Anyone with relevant information, CCTV, or video footage should contact police on 105.
