Protesters out again

Protesters gathered outside the Masterton Police station for a second day on Thursday to protest against police treatment of youths during arrest.

The demonstrations began on Wednesday, with protesters claiming young people had been mistreated during arrest.

A woman, who did not wish to be named, said the protesters had received community support throughout the day.

"We've had quite a lot of toots, lots of people came and stopped to see what's going on."

Those involved said they would like to see the police treat people with more respect.

"I've been arrested as well and haven't been given toilet paper and things like that.

"It's just the way that they treat us, doing what they do to our children - we've just had enough," she said.

Tere Torea said police should be seen to process any offender in the right way without brute force.

"Causing injury to people is unnecessary force, especially if they are releasing them with a warning," Mr Torea said.

The mother of a 16-year-old, who also did not want to be named, said her son had his arm broken while being arrested two weeks ago, but police said this claim could not be substantiated.

He had originally been charged but was let go with a warning, and his mother said she was not notified of his arrest. "My son is 16 and they're meant to get hold of me but they didn't," she said.

Acting Area Commander Senior Sergeant Carolyn Watson said police met members of the group yesterday, including protest organiser Myrtle Ratapu, to discuss their concerns.

Mrs Watson said there will be an ongoing police investigation into the complaints.

She said the complaints about broken bones were unable to be substantiated.

"We have not been provided with any evidence of broken bones but we are still keen to talk to the group about their other issues."