A man is in custody after a night of turmoil in the eastern Bay of Plenty, where police officers were fired upon and residents were held hostage in their homes overnight, Newshub reported.
The incident unfolded around 10 p.m. on Wednesday when police approached a suspicious vehicle on State Highway 30. The sole occupant of the vehicle reportedly discharged a firearm when approached by officers.
"Shortly after, the individual pointed the weapon at both officers, fortunately without causing injury," stated the police.
As the officers retreated to safety, the suspect allegedly stole a vehicle from a nearby residence and fled the scene.
"A prompt police response allowed officers to establish cordons and locate the vehicle, preventing the suspect from leaving the area," police added.
"The police helicopter, Eagle, was deployed from Auckland to support ground units."
The stolen vehicle was later found on a property on Hydro Road in Edgecumbe, where two occupants were allegedly threatened and held hostage.
The suspect then entered another building on the property, where a third victim, aged in their 70s, was reportedly assaulted and held hostage for over two hours.
Police rescued the two victims from the main house around midnight, while a police negotiation team engaged with the suspect, who remained in the other building.
After approximately 30 minutes, the suspect surrendered and was taken into custody without further incident.
The injured victim was subsequently transported to the hospital with minor injuries, and a sawn-off .22 rifle was recovered at the scene.
A 31-year-old man from Kawerau is set to appear in the Whakatāne District Court on Thursday, facing charges including using a firearm against law enforcement, kidnapping, wounding with intent to injure, aggravated burglary, failing to stop, threatening to kill, unlawfully taking a motor vehicle, and wilful damage.
Police described the incident as "dangerous and unpredictable."
"Three victims endured a distressing ordeal in their own home, a place where they should feel safe, and two police officers faced a completely unacceptable threat while carrying out their duty."
"Police are ensuring that the victims and officers receive the necessary support.
"I am proud of the actions of our police, who brought this volatile incident to a peaceful conclusion."
Police announced an increased presence in the area, with officers conducting reassurance patrols.
Scene examinations along State Highway 30 and Hydro Road are set to continue on Thursday.
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