Alleged Murupara police station break-in: Man charged, court appearance today

A 55-year-old man has been charged after allegedly breaking into the Murupara police station.

The man allegedly got into the unmanned police station by smashing a glass door at about 6.45am yesterday, acting Bay of Plenty District Commander Inspector Lincoln Sycamore said today.

“The police negotiation team engaged with the man for several hours before he was arrested outside the station without further incident, just after 12pm.”

He was charged with committing burglary with a weapon and intentional damage, and was expected to appear in the Rotorua District Court today, Sycamore said.

Inquiries were ongoing and further charges were possible.

The smashed front door of the Murupara police station. Photo / Ben Fraser

The station has been secured and repairs will begin as soon as possible, Sycamore said.

During the incident on Wednesday, armed police were stationed outside the building and police were speaking through a megaphone. Police cordoned off Pine Drive.

Following the suspect’s arrest just after noon, cordons were seen coming down soon after 12.30pm and police tape was put up around the station.

Armed police were stationed outside the Murupara police station on Pine Drive. Photo / Ben Fraser

A white ute was parked directly outside the building.

Residents watching from a nearby cordon told the Rotorua Daily Post they understood the ute hit the police station and a person was inside the building.

Sycamore said a vehicle was not used to gain entry.

He commended police for “negotiating a tricky situation to get a peaceful resolution”.

He also thanked the Murupara community for their co-operation and understanding.

“We understand these incidents can be distressing, however there was not believed to be any risk to public safety during or following [yesterday’s] events.”

Police cordoned off part of Pine Drive in Murupara. Photo / Ben Fraser