Twenty-five arrested in a day as crime wave continues after cyclone, four still missing

The crime wave hitting the Eastern District following Cyclone Gabrielle has continued with police confirming a further 25 arrests in the past day.

In the 24 hours to 7pm on Sunday, officers in the Eastern District conducted 502 prevention activities, including reassurance patrols and proactive engagements with storm-hit communities.

Over the same period, police received 492 calls for service, including 10 reports of burglaries, four unlawful taking of motor vehicles, and 54 family harm incidents.

Police said 25 people were arrested for a variety of offences – 13 in Hawke’s Bay and 12 in Tairāwhiti.

The offences included assault, destruction of property, disorder and theft.

Despite the consistent arrests over the past week, police said the district-based statistics remain within the “normal range”. 

Police added additional staff will remain in the area to assist with the recovery. 

It’s also been confirmed four people remain missing in the Eastern District following the cyclone, police said.