Police are monitoring a tangi in Rotorua as gang members gather to pay their respects.
Inspector Herby Ngawhika, Rotorua area commander, said it was the tangi of “a young person” who died after a crash in Ōwhata on Thursday.
“Police are maintaining a visible presence as Ngongotahā sees an increased presence of gang members paying their respects,” he said.
The Rotorua Daily Post reported yesterday that a video from Friday from when the body was being taken to a family member’s home showed cars doing burnouts and “drivers displaying unruly behaviour”.
“Police are aware of the activity depicted in the video several days ago, and police have since reiterated our clear expectations.
“This activity has not continued in following days,” Ngawhika said.
“Police recognise the right for people to grieve, however we must also ensure the law is upheld and others in the community can be and feel safe.”
The tangi is set to take place today in Ngongotahā, he added.
“Police are in close contact with the family who have set clear expectations for gang members planning to attend the tangi.
“Police have also engaged with gang leaders to communicate our expectations about the behaviour of those attending.”
A “range” of police staff would be deployed today.
“Our expectations are very clear – we have zero tolerance for unlawful behaviour,” Ngawhika said.
“If people choose to drive poorly or engage in disorderly behaviour, they can expect follow-up enforcement action.”
