Just over a week the national gang patch crackdown police can be seen roleplaying those who they are trying to stop.
Police Minister Mark Mitchell has criticised the behaviour of a police officer posing for cameras while wearing a gang patch in the office and said it was “disappointing” and fell short of “expectations”.
Mitchell added that overall, he was pleased with how the Gangs Act had rolled out and police conduct regarding breaches.
Police Assistant Commissioner Paul Basham said an internal process would determine any further action taken against the officer.
Ihi Research director and kaupapa Maori researcher Catherine Leonard said the behaviour perpetuated the cycle of distrust between gangs and police.
It demonstrated the need for extensive police training, she added.
