Police say locals in the area will see a visible increase in police across Ōpōtiki tomorrow and Saturday as a gang tangi travels from Rotorua.
"A large number of gang members and associates are expected to be in town for the tangi from many parts of the country," said Eastern Bay of Plenty Area Commander Inspector Nicky Cooney.
“Police will have additional resources available to provide support to staff and to provide a respectful and safe space for whānau and friends to grieve peacefully.”
She said police have conveyed their “lawful expectations to local gang leaders, including around the wearing or displaying of gang insignia in a public place, which the police will act upon.”
“Our focus is on the safety of everyone,” said Cooney
“We will not tolerate behaviour that aims to threaten or intimidate, and officers will be working to reduce disruption to the public.”
Additional police patrols will be in place on Friday and Saturday.
Police urge anyone who is witnessing illegal behaviour to call 111 immediately, and other reports can be made via 105.
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