Party inquiry 'top priority' - police

Ella Ekatone says a police officer pushed her to the ground with such force her teeth were ripped out at the roots. Photo / Supplied

Police say it is an "absolute priority" to establish what happened to a teenage girl who says she was assaulted by an officer at an out-of-control party in Howick at the weekend.

But they are yet to identify which of the 30 officers called to shut down the party was behind the alleged assault on 15-year-old Ella Ekatone.

An investigation was launched after pictures of Ella, injured and bloody, were posted on Facebook by friends who attended the 18th birthday party on Saturday.

Police were called by members of the public, who saw teenagers passed out in the streets. Upon arrival, police were pelted with dozens of bottles and had to call in back up.

Eventually, 30 police officers dispersed about 150 party-goers. Ella claimed she was pushed by an officer, causing her to fall face-first into the concrete and lose her two front teeth.

Yesterday, Inspector Jacqueline Whittaker said when police arrived the situation was difficult and unsafe.

The team investigating the incident were yet to speak to all staff who attended, she said.

"The facts haven't been established yet. There is a lot of speculation," said Ms Whittaker.

"There are a large number of people being interviewed, including police staff and party-goers. It will be investigated fully."

She said all officers who attended the party were still working.

The complaint is also being investigated by the Independent Police Conduct Authority.

Ella told RadioLive yesterday she decided to speak to the media because the officer hurt her and "I don't want him to get away with this".

"If this is happening on a regular basis it can't just go unnoticed because he's a policeman. People need to realise that this is happening a lot more than they think. I knew many people at the party who got hurt that night."

Ms Whittaker hoped the investigation, which would include reviewing photos and footage, would be wrapped up in two to three weeks.

"It's an absolute priority, we've got extra staff working on the investigation. This is an extremely unfortunate situation for everyone."