Armed police are carrying out a search warrant in Maketū this morning over a man’s death on SH33 in the Bay of Plenty.
Zain Taikato-Fox, 20, was found critically injured on the side of State Highway 33 by four men shortly after 7pm on Saturday, July 26.
He died from his injuries in Rotorua Hospital two days later.
Detective Inspector Craig Rawlinson said the search warrant followed other searches completed in Maketū three weeks ago as part of the same operation.
“There is not believed to be any risk to public safety, however residents can expect to see some staff armed as a precaution,” he said.
“Police have also engaged our iwi liaison officers, who will be in the township today, providing support and reassurance to locals.
Maketu Road has since reopened, with police – some of them armed – expected to remain in the town this morning as they continue to make inquiries.
The morning’s headlines in 90 seconds, including growing threats to our security, a monster hurricane brewing, and has the robot takeover begun? (Source: 1News)