‘Huge’ armed police operation in Bay of Plenty town of Maketū

A large armed police operation is under way in the Bay of Plenty town of Maketū.

Police have cordoned off Maketū Rd and there is a “huge police presence” in the area, according to one motorist stuck in their car at the scene.

A large pre-planned police operation in Maketū, Bay of Plenty on Thursday. Photo / Tom Eley

About 25 police cars were reported to be responding as part of the operation, with police also reportedly out on the water in Maketū Estuary.

Another bystander said the Armed Offenders Squad was there “with the guns out and everything, and it’s pretty frightening”.

A police spokesperson said it was a pre-planned operation and the public should expect to see an increased police presence in the area.

“Maketū Rd is currently closed, but the town is still accessible via Wilson Rd North,” the spokesperson said.

“Police would like to reassure the community that there is no concern to public safety and thank everyone for their understanding and patience.”

A large pre-planned police operation in Maketū, Bay of Plenty on Thursday. Photo / Tom Eley

Chairman of the Maketu School Board of Trustees Joanna Wilson said the kura went into a “precautionary ‘partial lockdown’” from 10.20am to 11.20am due to an “undisclosed Police matter in the community”.

A reporter said there were two cordonson Maketū Rd. One, near the intersection with Young Rd, was guarded by an armed police officer.

A police command unit was set up at the second on Maketū Rd, near Kaituna Rd.

A resident said police were also in boats in the Maketū Estuary.

The resident said locals believed the operation was related to the Mongrel Mob gang pad and a long-running legal case.

The case involved three Maketū properties subject to a forfeiture order under the Criminal Proceeds (Recovery) Act.

Police would not comment on whether the operation was linked to the case.

More to come