Armed home invaders 'after money and drugs'

An armed gang who broke into a Palmerston North house and attacked the occupants early yesterday were after money and drugs, police say.

The five men, believed to be Maori or Pacific Islanders, forced their way into the Owen St home about 12.30am armed with knives and what appeared to be a cut-down rifle, said Detective Sergeant Dave Clifford.

In the home were two men, a woman and her two children, aged 1 and 3.

The two men were assaulted but neither was seriously injured and did not require hospital treatment.

Mr Clifford said the invaders demanded money and drugs in what appeared to be a targeted incident.

"I say that to allay any fears the neighbours may have that it could have been them," he said.

"I don't think it could have been - I think there was a specific reason for going to that address."

Mr Clifford said he believed the occupants knew the offenders.

"It would appear that way. Although the victims say they don't know who or why ... these things don't happen without a reason."

Mr Clifford said police had not yet identified any of the offenders.

Four of the men were disguised but the fifth was not.

The gang took a camera, a video-camera, other electrical equipment and a small amount of money. They escaped in a car parked nearby.

- NZPA