IED event in New Zealand on Tue 6th August 2024

Decisive action from Corrections officers prevented a potential bomb incident at Hawke’s Bay prison.

Police and a New Zealand Defence Force Explosive Ordinance Disposal team responded to a call to the prison on Tuesday morning after a bomb threat was detected by Corrections staff at a checkpoint near Hawke’s Bay Prison.

“The driver of the vehicle was denied entry to the prison. Staff took their details and provided this information to police,” George Massingham, general manager, Hawke’s Bay Regional Prison told the Herald.

“All footage of the incident that was available has been provided to police along with statements from staff, and the incident remains subject to an ongoing police investigation.

A police spokesperson said: “Police were notified at around 9.45am (Tuesday, August 6), that a potential explosive device had been located in a vehicle at a search checkpoint leading to Hawke’s Bay Regional Prison.

“Officers attended, and the New Zealand Defence Force Explosive Ordnance Disposal team was engaged.

“The item was isolated, and handed over to NZDF’s EOD team to examine.”

“Police inquiries into this matter are ongoing.”

A NZDF spokesperson added: “A New Zealand Defence Force team responded to a request for assistance from New Zealand Police at Hawke’s Bay Regional Prison yesterday (Tuesday) where an item of concern was discovered.

“The item was investigated and determined to be a small pipe bomb which was removed and disposed of in a safe manner.

“Anyone who discovers a potentially dangerous item, should always exercise caution until the item is deemed safe by an expert. If you do discover something that might be dangerous, remain clear of the item and contact New Zealand Police as soon as possible.”