Police Investigate Concerns over Safety of Māori Candidate, No Evidence of Racial Motivation
Police are currently investigating five reports of concern regarding the safety of Te Pāti Māori candidate Hana-Rāwhiti Maipi-Clarke. However, authorities have stated that they do not believe these incidents were racially motivated or coordinated.
According to Detective Inspector Darrell Harpur, one individual has been officially trespassed from Maipi-Clarke’s residence in Huntly. It’s important to note that this was not classified as a home invasion.
On September 25th, an election hoarding was stolen from Maipi-Clarke’s property. However, Harpur clarified that hoardings from various political parties in the area were also stolen or defaced, indicating that this incident was not specifically targeted.
Authorities have also looked into reports of a suspicious vehicle, but at this stage, they do not believe it is connected to any intentions towards the property.
Although a report was made about a burglary and a threatening note, the police have been unable to find any evidence of criminality. Nonetheless, their inquiries into these reports are ongoing.
During the investigation period, police have visited the property multiple times to provide reassurance and investigate the reports. They have also offered crime prevention and safety advice to the occupants.
The police maintain that these incidents were neither racially motivated nor coordinated. While acknowledging the unsettling nature of individuals entering the property, they do not consider them to be home invasions.
During the election period, the priority for the police is to maintain law and order and protect the right to freedom of expression. This includes ensuring the safety and confidence of candidates and their teams as they carry out their work leading up to the election.
The police regularly monitor the campaigning activities of candidates, and any decisions regarding police presence or action are made on a case-by-case basis.
In conclusion, the police investigation into concerns about the safety of Te Pāti Māori candidate Hana-Rāwhiti Maipi-Clarke is ongoing. While the incidents do not appear to be racially motivated or coordinated, authorities remain committed to maintaining law and order and ensuring a safe environment for candidates during the election period.
