Thursday, October 26, 2017
Sven Carlsson
OPOTIKI police Sergeant Dale Allison says drugs and violence are detrimental to the social structure of Opotiki.
On October 17, police arrested a 23-year-old man and charged him with injuring with intent to injure after an attack on a 47-year-old man.
“The unprovoked attack on the man, who was unknown to the attacker, took place in town during the early hours of the morning of Saturday, October 14,” he said.
Mr Allison said police were appalled at the callous thuggish actions of the attacker, who had punched the victim and kicked him while unconscious.
“This behaviour is unacceptable and people should be able to walk down the street without being randomly assaulted or intimidated by gang members,” he said.
“The offender is a member of the Mongrel Mob barbarians chapter.”
The victim was treated by St John Ambulance staff following the attack, but did not require hospitalisation.
“The offender has been remanded in custody and the victim is recovering,” Mr Allison said.
“We would like to thank the members of the public who came to the aid of the victim.”
On Friday, October 20, police executed a search warrant at an Opotiki address. A large amount of cannabis and cash was recovered and two people were charged with drug-related offences.
“It’s clear the occupants of this address have been dealing cannabis for some time,” Mr Allison said.
“The social harm this drug dealing creates for the small community in Opotiki is immeasurable.
“The persons committing this offending have no regard for the community, and are only interested in financial gain.”
Mr Allison encourages anyone to call the police anonymously on Crimestoppers 0800555111 to report any illegal activity.