Police inquiry continues after gunshots heard

TAKING CHARGE: The police command centre set up in Dannevirke's Rawhiti St on Thursday night, after an armed offenders squad callout to Stanley St following reports of shots being fired. PHOTO/CHRISTINE McKAY

Inquiries are continuing after the armed offenders squad responded to reports of gunshots in Dannevirke late Thursday afternoon.

Senior Sergeant Nathan Davis of the Tararua Police said two reports were received at 4.15pm on Thursday, from members of the public who had heard shots being fired.

"As a result of preliminary interviews with the witnesses, assistance from the Palmerston North squad was requested," Mr Davis said.

"They cleared an address in Stanley St and the occupants were removed without incident."

As the incident unfolded, police cordoned off State Highway 2 at the southern end of Dannevirke, diverting traffic along Rawhiti St, where a police command centre had been set up.

Mr Davis said the police were continuing their inquiries yesterday, including a scene examination at the address on Stanley St.

Interviews were also being conducted yesterday, Mr Davis said.

Reports of people running from the area on Thursday evening have not been confirmed and Mr Davis said police were appealing for any information anyone may have in relation to the incident.

Dannevirke residents, startled by the sight and sound of seven police cars racing to the scene, said they went home and locked their doors.

Rawhiti St resident Paddy Mullholland said it was reassuring to see so many police responding to the incident.

"When I looked out my window I couldn't make out what was happening but it was good to see the police in charge, I felt safe," he said.