Twenty-three people have been arrested across Auckland for dangerous and unlawful behaviour during weekend celebrations tied to Samoa’s league victory over Tonga, with police saying the majority of revellers marked the occasion peacefully.
On Sunday, Toa Samoa beat Mate Ma’a Tonga 34-6 at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium, landing the team a spot in the Pacific Championship final.
The arrests, 14 on Saturday night and nine on Sunday, came as officers monitored several town centres across Auckland, including Ōtāhuhu, Māngere, Ōtara and Clendon, that traditionally celebrated the two teams.
Police said they observed a high volume of vehicles and pedestrians in these areas, with most enjoying the festivities in good spirits.
However, multiple incidents prompted arrests, including high-risk traffic offending, people riding on top of vehicles, and vehicles doing skids.
Police said they observed a high volume of vehicles and pedestrians in these areas, with most enjoying the festivities in good spirits. (Source: 1News)
“While police would like to thank the majority who celebrated peacefully and lawfully, there were multiple incidents that were disappointing to police,” a police spokesperson said.
More than 200 infringement notices were issued for driving and road-related offences.
Police said the behaviour was not only unlawful but posed a real risk to the safety of those participating, spectators and members of the public.
“Police ask those who wish to celebrate, to please do so in a lawful and considerate manner, to ensure the safety of everyone within our communities.”
Further enforcement action would occur as police followed up on information gathered over the weekend.
Anyone who sees unlawful or suspicious behaviour should call police immediately on 111 and provide as much information as can be safely gathered.
