Hon Clem Simich
Minister of Police

MORE POLICE FOR TARGETED ENFORCEMENT

Eight targeted enforcement squads focusing on crime hotspots will boost Police numbers by almost a hundred and funding by up to $6 million, Police Minister Clem Simich announced today.

"Police tell us they want extra numbers so they can adopt a more targeted approach in Police districts which are bucking the overall downward trend in crime," Mr Simich said.

Each squad will consist of 12 members: 10 sworn officers and two civilian support staff. The teams will specifically target violence and property crime, and will aim for maximum effect by concentrating their efforts on crime hotspots.

Districts where squads will be posted are Northland, North Shore/Waitakere, Auckland City, Counties/Manukau, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Eastern and Canterbury.

The extra 80 sworn staff brings to 200 the number of new Police officers delivered by the National-led Government in just 5 months. This brings the number of sworn Police officers to almost 7000 by June 2000 - the highest ever in New Zealand's history.

"The aim of these teams is to build on the changes made by the Police Review to allow districts to police themselves more effectively," Mr Simich said.

"Police District Managers will be accountable to the Commissioner for using these teams to reduce crime in their areas."

"That's what the Police Review's all about - creating a more focused force with an emphasis on crime reduction."